On April 26, 2020 James (Jim) J. McHugh, loving husband and father of 2, passed away at the age of 57. He died peacefully at his home in Purdys, NY surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on May 19, 1962 in Yonkers, NY to parents Francis and Ann (Morrison) McHugh, he was one of eight children. He is survived by his wife Dorothea (Spano) and his children Megan and James. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Mike. He is also survived by his siblings; Francis (Grace), Margaret (Demetri), Kevin, Maura (Jerry), John (Siobhan), Timothy (Lynda) as well as his nieces & nephews (Michael, Caitlin, Ryan, Justin, Shannon, Kyle, Jack, Anna, Billy, Sadie, Riley and great nephew Owen). In addition, Jim is survived by his mother-in-law, Cynthia Spano, his many brothers and sisters-in-law and their children.

Jim was born and raised in Yonkers, NY and graduated from Iona Preparatory High School in 1980. Knowing exactly what he wanted to do after high school, Jim attended the Technical Career Institute in NYC and received his certification in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. He mastered his trade and has been a business owner since the mid 1980’s and was currently the owner and operator of Freon Finders Corp. Jim was a talented mechanic in his field and took pride in his work, he established himself in the industry, especially among the Carvel Ice Cream stores across the Tri-State area. Over the years he developed strong business relationships, as well as many friendships. He was very much respected for his knowledge, hard work and his generosity.

Jim was married to his wife Dorothea (Dottie) since 1993 and they have 2 young adult children Megan and James. After Jim married Dottie, they settled in Purdys, NY, where they raised their family. The single most important thing in Jim’s life was his family and he devoted himself tirelessly to create a wonderful home and life for them. His pride for his family was immense. He loved spending time with his family, especially his summers in LBI where great memories were created, particularly surf fishing off the beach with his children, siblings and nieces & nephews. Jim had a passion for the outdoors, in addition to fishing, he loved working outdoors and took great pride in landscaping around his home. He was an avid hunter and belonged to the Shomokin Rod & Gun Club in Phoenicia, NY, where he found solace in the woods and camaraderie with his brother-in-laws, nephews, cousins and friends. Jim had a great wit and knew how to get you going, all he needed was an audience and you were guaranteed a fun time. His smile was infectious, but most of all his heart was enormous.

Jim was a champion for the underdog and he was the guy you always wanted in your corner. If he called you a friend (and he was a friend to many), you were a friend for life. You needed a helping hand, Jim was the guy you called. He was also a champion for organizations such as; Support Connection, The Somers Lions Club and the Ancient Order of Hibernians (he was an honorary member of the AOH), helping to raise money for charity events. But most of all he was a champion of the people. He didn’t need to know you to lend a helping hand, he just did that naturally. He spent his whole life building relationships, starting from childhood all the way to the present. The bonds that were formed and the accumulation of friendships are countless, and an example of how Jim lived his life as an exceptional human being. Jim has left behind an amazing legacy, especially with his children. There’s not a person that he has touched with some form of kindness that wouldn’t be able to smile from a sweet memory of Jim...now that’s priceless. He will be missed beyond words. Rest in peace dearest husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend...we love you big Jim

Private services will be held at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home,Inc. Please visit www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.

Memorial donations may be made to support the Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center at Northern Westchester Hospital: https://www.nwhconnect.org/cancer.