James Arthur Graffrath

James Arthur Graffrath, 87, of Wellsville, New York, died peacefully at home on March 11, 2026, with his loving wife, Lynn, by his side.

Born on June 8, 1938, in Rochester, he was the son of Paul A. and Druscilla Smallridge Graffrath. A 1956 graduate of Irondequoit High School, Jim served with the National Guard beginning in 1956 and was activated for duty with the U.S. Army as a Supply Sergeant from 1961 to 1962. Over the years he built a varied and industrious career, owning a fruit stand and garden store in Webster, serving with the Webster Police Department, living aboard a sailboat in the Florida Keys, and later becoming a Correctional Officer for Allegany County, a deputy with the Allegany County Sheriff’s Department, and an officer with the Andover Police Department. He and Lynn owned and operated the Wellsville Pennysaver from 1981 to 1988, after which he worked as manager of the Wellsville Daily Reporter and at Sandle Custom Bearing. He also served three terms as an Allegany County Legislator from 1993 to 2004 and was an active member of the Wellsville Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, and Downtown Merchants Association.

In 1993, Jim and Lynn began the Secret Santa Christmas Dinner Tradition, organizing volunteers and local donations to deliver hot meals to the needy and shut-ins each Christmas morning. What started as a modest effort has continued for more than three decades and now provides over 250 meals annually.

Jim cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who loved listening to his stories of days gone by. He and Lynn traveled the world together, spending many winters in Panama City Beach, Florida, where they made lasting friendships. They enjoyed fishing, cooking, and exploring new restaurants. Above all, he loved the home he built on Pixley Hill, where he could be found gardening, hunting, walking in the woods, or sharing meals with members of the Pixley Hill Hunt Club.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn; son, James B. Graffrath; stepchildren, Lisa Cline Lindsay and her husband Michael, Scott Cline, and Daniel Cline; several beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Howard Graffrath.