James F. McNally

James F. McNally, affectionately known as Smith, packed it up one last time on March 7, 2026. His adventure on Earth ended peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on November 29, 1946 and raised in Lowell, Massachusetts, Jim graduated from Saint Anselm College. He taught in the Lowell School District before marrying his best friend, Jane Curtze. In 1983 they moved to Erie, where he became part-owner of Lake Erie Electric. He later worked for many years at the Erie Sports Store in the hunting and fishing department before retiring.

Jim was a kind and gentle soul blessed with talent, wit, and wisdom. An avid gardener, he shared his wife’s passion for birdwatching and nature photography. He was a meticulous miniatures and model car hobbyist, maintained beautiful freshwater aquariums in his earlier years, and loved hunting and teaching his children and grandchildren to fish. A devoted collector of NASCAR, Rat Fink, and Elvis memorabilia, he took special joy in sharing these treasures with those he loved. Many cherished memories involve visits to his workshop to admire his latest project or to choose a toy car or trinket, especially for his grandsons. Above all, Jim loved his family deeply and touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James M. and Virginia (Taylor) McNally, and his beloved dog, Rocky.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jane (Curtze) McNally; his son Steven McNally and wife Jessica, and his daughter Melissa J. McNally, all of Erie. He is the brother of Virginia Courtnay and her husband David of Dracut, Massachusetts, and the proud grandfather of Dylan McNally, James McNally, Corey Carolus, and Mickey McNally. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.