EAST DURHAM -

James Michael Seman, 74, of East Durham, NY, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, after spending his final days surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 5, 1951, in Queens, NY, Jim graduated from Andrew Jackson High School. Jim sought to live a life free of stress and worked to cultivate a life that allowed him to be available to others whenever they needed him.Jim prioritized his family above all else, always working within his means to provide for his children, grandchildren, and wife. Whether it was back-to-school clothes, baseball gear, horseback riding lessons, or even moving the family based on where they wanted to be, he found a way to make it happen. He consistently put others’ needs ahead of his own when it mattered most.Earlier in life, Jim looked up to his older brothers, Jerry and Steve, and spent his younger years traveling with friends, capturing moments through his camera lens, going to concerts (often recording them on a tape recorder tucked into his jacket), and hunting - much of it centered around spending time with and preserving memories of his friends and family. During this time, he also built a career as an early computer programmer working on DOS operating systems, notably working in the Empire State Building. 

He took pride in showing his children what was possible and giving them something to strive toward.He spent many years driving taxis - primarily with Decker’s in Catskill. While it wasn’t glamorous and often required long days, he found joy in the work. He loved being on the road, meeting new people, hearing their stories, and forming connections. He had a special place in his heart for his elderly customers, often going out of his way to help - making sure they got to medical appointments, picking up groceries, covering fares when they were short, and doing what he could to make life a little easier for those who needed it most. For anyone who knew Jim, it comes as no surprise that he was happiest tinkering around his apartment complex - with a cigarette in hand, a coffee nearby, and a good meal to look forward to. He loved simple comforts: a rare steak, pot cheese and noodles (if you know, you know), and traditional Hungarian double-smoked bacon or paprika szalonna. He also found joy in birdwatching, taking the time to learn local species, looking forward to their yearly migratory patterns, and even creating his own bird feed mixes. Just as much, he cherished the little things - painting Easter eggs with his grandchildren and, above all else, enjoying those rare, pleasant days when the whole family was together. Jim was a good friend, a devoted and loving father, and someone with a sharp and unforgettable sense of humor. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, make a stranger feel welcome, or bring a smile to someone’s face. He was a kind man and will be deeply missed. 

Jim is survived by his wife Carmela Seman; his children, Joseph Seman-Graves (Maggie Barber), Elizabeth Mammano; his grandchildren, Tyler Kern, David Meltz, Sadie Graves and Finnegan Graves; his Sister-in-Law Rebecca Anderson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever miss his humor, warmth, and presence. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Seman; His brothers, Jerry Anderson and Steve Seman (Elaine Seman). Per Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal services, but rather a celebration of life. Friends and family are welcome to gather on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Shamrock House, 2388 State Route 145, East Durham, NY 12423, to share stories, laughter, and memories.In lieu of flowers (Jim would probably tell you not to bother), please share your favorite pictures, stories, and memories with his family.

Jim’s presence, humor, and quiet generosity left a lasting mark on those who knew him. His loss will be deeply felt, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.

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