Hopewell Junction- James E. Padilla, 78, a resident of Hopewell Junction since 1986, passed away at home on July 24, 2024. He was lovingly known as "Shickie" to all who loved him.

James was born on October 30, 1945, in Manhattan, the son of the late Rudolf and Consuelo "Connie" Gonzalez Padilla.

In a beautiful ceremony at home on September 12, 1987, he married the love of his life Christina (DeMasi) Padilla. She survives at home.

For 36 years, James showed up to work daily with a smile and dressed in a three-piece suit at IBM in East Fishkill. After retirement, he worked part-time as a school bus driver with the Wappingers Central School District.

Locally, James was a greeter at St. Denis Church in Hopewell Junction, and a member of the Pirate Canoe Club in Poughkeepsie.

He was a train enthusiast and wine connoisseur. He was an avid New York Mets fan and enjoyed NASCAR racing. He loved karaoke, with his go-to song being "Can't Get Enough of Your Love" by Barry White. Being around his family and friends gave him much joy. He could often be found being the "bartender" at home parties. James loved tradition and would often bring old-world Mexican and Italian values to his parties.

In addition to his loving wife Christina, James is survived by his son James (Caroline) Padilla; his grandchildren: Dawn (Tony) Payne, Jessica (Alex) Storjohann, and Michael Padilla; his great-grandchildren: Charles, Caelan, Jordyn, Carmyn, and Evelyn; and his brothers: Roland T. (Loretto) Padilla, Billy (Karen) Padilla.

He was predeceased by his son Kevin Padilla; grandson Alex Padilla; and his siblings: Christina Gilsenan, Phil Padilla, and Roland Rudolf Padilla.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 10 am at St. Denis Church. 602 Beekman Road, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533.

Memorial donations can be made in James's name to the St. Jude Children's Hospital at www.stjude.org