Holman F. James

Holman F. James, 84, of Williamsport passed away peacefully with his family by his side Saturday, August 12, 2017. Surviving is his wife of 63 years, Jeanne A. (Paterson) James whom he married on December 23, 1953.

Born March 5, 1933, in Palmerton, Holman was the only child born to the late Thomas and Evelyn (Williams) James. 

Holman proudly served his country in the US Army. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from West Chester University and upon graduation he began a lifelong career as a band and instrumental music educator. Holman taught students in Delaware Valley, Spring Ford, and William Penn School Districts. He retired in 1987 after spending his last ten years educating in the Williamsport Area School District, and received the Teacher of Excellence Award in 1988. During retirement, Holman continued to mentor and instruct students learning musical instruments, but he also took on a ten year role being a custom fishing rod builder, for E. Hille Co.

Holman was a member of Pine Street United Methodist Church, the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, Tall Cedars of Lebanon and York #30, Ivy Lodge 397 F&A.M., and a 32nd degree Mason of the Williamsport Consistory. He served as a past District President at PMEA South Eastern School District, and was part of the finance and church council committees at Pine Street.

Music was a large part of Holman’s life, and there are many fond memories of his time spent with the York Band and the performances for NFL halftime shows. Holman was a certified adjudicator for Drum Corps International, and participated and instructed several marching bands, jazz ensembles, and concert band competitions throughout his years. He was a man of many talents, who loved to play the trumpet, was an avid fly fisherman, fly tier, and rod builder.

Holman’s greatest passion in life was the family he created with Jeanne. From the start the couples collaborated efforts, which often complimented each other, allowed them to build a home filled with wonderful memories of times spent with their children and grandchildren. From camping to beach trips and Broadway musical shows, his proudest moments came from watching his children and grandchildren grow.

Surviving in addition to his wife are a daughter, Dawn L. and James M. Marcantino, of New Castle; three grandchildren, Sean Marcantino, Heather James, and Kristin James, and many other dear family members and friends.

Holman was preceded in death by a daughter, Sheryl J. James, and a son, Bradford S. James.

A memorial service to honor the life of Holman will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, August 19 at Pine Street United Methodist Church, 441 Pine Street, Williamsport, with the Rev. Douglas M. Eberly, officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday, at church. Masonic rites will be accorded at the beginning of the service by Ivy Lodge 397 F&A.M. Burial will be held at a later date in Sky View Memorial Park, Tamaqua.

Memorial contributions may be made in Holman’s name to Pine St. UMC, 441 Pine St. Williamsport, PA 17701 or the Lycoming Creek Angler’s Club Attn: Sam Caldwell, 2079 Blair St. Williamsport, PA 17701.

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