SCHENECTADY -

James Arthur “Jimmy” Birch, 71, of Schenectady, New York, passed away on March 14, 2026, at Albany Medical Center after a brief illness. 

He was born on December 15, 1954, in Niskayuna, New York, to the late Mildred June Hart and Warren Arthur Birch. 

Jimmy was educated in the Schenectady City School District and attended Linton High School. He later proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He had a lifelong passion for transportation, especially trains and airplanes. Jimmy often spent time at the airport watching planes take off and land, finding joy in the experience. He was also known for building detailed model replicas, which he proudly shared with friends and family. In addition, he had a deep love for animals and was happiest when he had a dog by his side. 

Jimmy is survived by his son, Christopher J. Jamnik (née Birch) of Danville, Illinois; his sisters, Patricia Nguyen of Katy, Texas, and Maryann Carraway of Amelia Court House, Virginia; and his brother, Thomas Hotaling of Schenectady, New York. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Claudia Martin, and his brothers, Warren “Buster” Birch Jr. and Levern “Vern” Birch. 

Jimmy will be cremated, and there will be no formal services. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to Pilots N Paws, an organization reflecting his love of aviation and animals.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com