James Travers, 83, of New Castle, PA, passed away on Friday October, 11 2024.

James was born on June 5, 1941 in New Castle, PA, to James and Dolores (Ritchie) Travers. He graduated from New Castle High School in 1959 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University. James also earned a Master of Science Education degree from Florida International University in Miami, FL, in 1978.

James taught science in the Dade County Public School system from 1971 to 2005, and was greatly respected and loved by his many students.

James is preceded in death by his father, James Travers, Jr.; his mother, Dolores Travers; a sister Eva Travers; his beloved dogs, Apple Pie and Clyde; as well as the numerous cats that were a part of his loving family.

He is succeeded by Marianne Flynn Travers, his wife of nearly 53 years; his son, James Travers, both of New Castle; his daughter, Jill Alison Drews, and her husband, Christopher Drews; and his grandson, Quinn Drews, all of Hopwood, PA; his two sisters, Barbara Gee, and her husband, Lou Gee, of Poway, CA; and Patti Mischel; of New Castle, PA; as well as many nieces and nephews.

James was a generous, kindhearted, noble, hardworking, and compassionate man. James had a passion for art, particularly the works of Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin. In the evening before dinner, he loved to listen to classical music, Puccini being one of his favorite composers.  He had a fondness for nature and biology, and enjoyed working outside, whether it be in his garden or tending to his yard. He was an imaginative and inquisitive man and he had an extensive knowledge on subjects ranging from, but certainly not limited to: history, the natural sciences, literature, art, and classical music. James was an amazing role model and a superlative man who always looked for the beautiful things in life. He was a great teacher of subject and life, and a world class father. James graduated from life with top honors and has moved on to his reward in the Kingdom of God.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday (10-17-24) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St., New Castle.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday (10-18-24) in Holy Spirit Parish – St. Camillus Church, 314 W. Englewood Ave., New Castle, with Rev. Ben Barr, as celebrant.

Interment: St. Mary's Cemetery, Union Twp.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com.