Obituary of James J. Livingstone

James "Jim" J. Livingstone of Rexford NY entered eternal life while holding his wife Linda's hand, in the comfort of his home surrounded by loved ones on Jan. 12, 2022. He achieved 88.5 years of building a life story that brought him love, faith, challenges and great accomplishments.

Born in Bridgeport, CT, Jim was the son of the late Charles and Jeanette "Ruby" Carten Livingstone. Following high school, he graduated from Bryant College where he earned his BA in Accounting. Jim was a US Army veteran serving in the Korean War from 1953-1955 and earned the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and an Honorable Discharge.

Following his service, Jim worked for several companies, culminating with a career at the Ayco Company (A Goldman Sachs Company) from 1976 to 1994 as SVP and CFO. Leaving the professional world behind, Jim dedicated himself to his favorite and most important job...being the head of the Livingstone Clan. With his "Princess" at his side, he relished many titles and duties as father, husband, grandfather and friend. Armed with an outgoing personality and blessed with a "take charge" attitude, he watched, guided, encouraged and oversaw as his family expanded and flourished. He was "Dad" to Linda (George) Garavelli, Ballston Lake, David (Kim), Fultonville, James (Kris), Cranberry Township, PA and Danielle Major, Halfmoon.

He was "Grandpa Jim" enriching the lives of Ashley, Adam, Alexis, Hunter, Schyler, Kaitlyn, Claire, Mark and Mia. He was "Uncle Jim" to many cousins, nieces and nephews and a friend and father figure to his friend and brother-in-law, Keith (Kathy) LeSchander of Rochester. He was also well loved by Gatsby, his canine buddy. He was predeceased by four siblings and their spouses.

Married for over 30 years, Jim and Linda were inseparable and shared a remarkable love story. Always a people person, Jim had a talent for making you feel special. Those who knew and loved him gave him the title of "Mayor of Rexford." When you entered his friendship circle, you sensed he cared about you and you shared his joy for living. He loved the simple things like watching boats navigate the Mohawk from his deck, following the "ponies" at Saratoga, bemoaning the Giant's failings or sipping wine at sunset. He enjoyed adventure and exploring new places, his favorite destination was Naples FL. He loved hosting a party or attending one. Jim could make an everyday event extraordinary. Once he managed to talk a waiter at elite NY restaurant into taking the "Livingstone Party" on an extended tour of the prohibited wine cellar, which was highly unusual. He also had a talent for adjusting the world to his liking. This was accomplished by what friends and family referred to as "the look". Or a conversation that began with the phrase..."I'm not happy!". Jim could work miracles with this approach...yet still remaining the gentleman.

Jim was unique. He will be missed...He will be remembered...He was loved. The lives that he touched are richer for knowing him. He was so blessed.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 from 10:30 am to 12:30 with a Funeral Service immediately following at the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Route 9, Clifton Park, NY 12065. A Military Honors Service will be held at 2:00 pm in the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

The Livingstone family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Judy Johnson, beloved "sister" and friend, Ronnie Tucker of Community Hospice of Saratoga and caregivers, Nancy Johnson and Rohanie Chattergoon for their loving care.

Those desiring, may make memorial contributions to the Community Hospice of Saratoga or the Alzheimers Association in memory of James J. Livingstone.

Please feel free to view Jim's Memorial Video tribute or express your online condolences by visiting gordoncemerickfuneralhome.com