James H. Reilly

James Hugh Reilly, 88, of New Berlin, passed away Friday, March 29, 2019, at his home.

He was born February 28, 1931, in Oakdale, PA, a son of the late Hugh and Sara (McKissick) Reilly.

He was a 1949 graduate of South Fayette High School.  In June of 1952,

James entered into the army.  He was honorably discharged in December 1953.

James enrolled at West Virginia University to study forestry and graduated in 1961.  He was employed by the Park Service in 1962 and became superintendent of Keystone State Park in Westmoreland County, PA. He was employed by the Forest Service in 1964 and worked for them until his retirement in 1991. While employed by the Forest Service, James particularly enjoyed going to area schools and teaching the students about trees and forestry.

Earlier in life, James attended Presbyterian Church in Mifflinburg with his family.

He enjoyed eating at restaurants, especially Chinese, flea markets, feeding birds and squirrels and tending to his flock of backyard chickens.

Surviving are five children, Rebecca (Raymond) Sydeski of Minneapolis, Jeffrey of New Berlin, James (Kellie) of New Berlin, Kathleen of Pittsburgh, and Jeanne (Steve) Brook of Outer Banks, NC; six grandchildren, Matthew and Jonathan Sydeski, Nadine Reilly, Erin Hartman, Benjamin Reilly, and Chris Back; two great-grandchildren, Elijah Smith and Emma Sydeski; and a brother, Robert, of Oakdale, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Wayne.

Per James wishes there will be no formal memorial service at this time.  He will be interred in alongside his parents and brother on the family plot in Oakdale Cemetery.

The family is planning on having a celebration of his life at a later date at his home.

In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree or shrub in his memory, or if you wish to make a donation in his name to The Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410.