James S. Merrill, 90, of Valatie passed away at home on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 surrounded by his family. He was born January 18, 1932 to James and Mary (Haussler) Merrill. Jim was predeceased by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Maureen Merrill and sister, Eileen Jones. He is survived by his loving wife Susan of 60 years; children, Scott (Robin) Merrill of East Greenbush and LeeAnn (Rob) Schaub of La Pointe, Wisconsin; two grandchildren James (Chelsea McGowan) and Robert Merrill; and sister and brother-in-law, Louann and Ray Sheffer; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He attended Siena College on a basketball scholarship before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. Jim received his Master's Degree in Elementary Education from SUNY Plattsburgh. Known as "Hooks" Merrill in his hometown of Hoosick Falls, New York – Jim was a member of the 1955-1956 undefeated championship Plattsburgh State basketball team. Jim began his teaching career in Long Island. In 1968 he moved to Chatham, New York. Jim retired after 19 years of service as a teacher and principal from Taconic Hills School District where he also coached golf and girls basketball. Jim was dedicated to helping his students succeed and always enjoyed running into his former students as adults. Upon his retirement, he served as Judge for the Town of Ghent and Village of Chatham for 15 years. He was a member of Hudson Elks Lodge #787 and was a past president of the Chatham Lions Club. Jim was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan, avid golfer and birdwatcher. Jim and Sue loved traveling to Scotland, England and Canada. They also enjoyed many winters in Jekyll Island, GA. The family would like to offer special thanks to Rene and Abby for their compassion, friendship and skilled assistance in making Jim's final days comfortable and peaceful and to thank Community Hospice. Family will receive friends Friday June 24th from 5 to 7pm at the French, Gifford, Preiter & BLasl Funeral Home..Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 11am at St. James Catholic Church in Chatham, New York. Private burial will be in St. James Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in James S. Merrill's memory to the Niverville Fire Department at PO Box 422, Niverville, NY 12130 or Ghent Food Pantry at PO Box 98, Ghent, NY12075. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.