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17 tree(s) planted in memory of James King
With Love, Bronson Graff & Tania Feliciano
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Gary and Joan planted 5 trees in memory of James King
Thursday, April 24, 2025
5 trees were planted in memory of
James L. King
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We are so sorry and send our deepest condolences. We will remember him with affection and love. May he rest in peace. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Josh Sager planted 5 trees in memory of James King
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
5 trees were planted in memory of
James L. King
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A great man who cared. I will miss his yearly check ins and well wishes. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Mary Hoffman posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
This was posted on social media by the NYSBDC Central Office -
Today is a very sad day for our network. Our founder, a true icon and visionary leader, Jim King has passed away. There are times where people transcend a job, into something else entirely and build something profound. Jim was just such a person. He started our network and for over 30 years, Jim’s vision and leadership have shaped our organization and set the benchmark for small business support—not just in New York, but nationwide. Our network would not exist without him. We only hope we can live up to the example he set, the passion he brought to the job, and the incredible foundation he built for us, In the last 50 years, he was one of the most transformational and often unsung leaders for economic development in New York State. He worked tirelessly, and never looked for personal attention or acknowledgment and always put the network and the small business clients we serve first.
Beginning in 1984 he and his team built a network of business assistance centers across New York State. He worked with legislators, business leaders and education officials in New York to secure the funding required to establish the program and help it grow in the years following its start. The network he envisioned in the early 1980s eventually grew to encompass 24 regional centers and 70 satellite offices strategically located to serve individuals in every corner of the state. It is the most expansive small business support system in the state. Always an innovator, Jim pushed the bar on what is possible for small business and technical assistance, and was consistently recognized for providing a model the entire country could learn from. Our own personal journeys as SBDC staff and believers in small business support was only given a home, because Jim helped create that home. His light and presence is still very much felt within our organization and all we do, we do in Jim’s footsteps.
We were lucky and blessed to have an opportunity to sit down and talk with him last year about the history of the organization and the profound work of the network he helped build. We look forward to showcasing some of these insights and thoughts in the weeks and months ahead, as well as paying tribute to him and his work with the words of so many that were impacted by him. If you knew Jim or even if you didn’t know him, but the work of the SBDC has had an impact on your life, please feel free to pay your respects here: https://harrisfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/5152/James-King/obituary.html#tribute-start
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Bronson Graff lit a candle
Sunday, April 27, 2025
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Growing up, some of my best memories were summers at the cabin and visits to Hart at my grandparents' house, often with my great-aunt Donna nearby. Jim was always part of what made those times feel so alive. His big laugh, his one-of-a-kind wit, and his way of making everyone — young or old — feel welcome and seen, left a lasting mark on me. Even as a kid, I could tell he was someone special.
As I grew older, I only came to admire him more — for the way he lived with humor, energy, and a genuine kindness that made every gathering better just because he was there. Jim had that rare ability to turn ordinary moments into memories that stuck with you long after the day was over.
We will all miss him dearly. My heart goes out to Lynne, to Matt & Shannon, to Andy & Kate, and to the whole family. Jim’s laughter, his spirit, and the deep love he had for his family will live on in all the lives he touched — and in the memories we’ll continue to cherish. With Love, Bronson Graff
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With Love, Bronson Graff & Tania Feliciano purchased flowers
Sunday, April 27, 2025
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With Love, Bronson Graff & Tania Feliciano
purchased the White Designer's Choice and planted a memorial tree for the family of James King.
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Lynne, Tania and I are heartbroken for you, and at the same time so grateful to have had Jim in our lives. He remains with us as a treasured memory.
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With Love, Bronson Graff & Tania Feliciano planted a tree in memory of James King
Sunday, April 27, 2025
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Lynne, Tania and I are heartbroken for you, and at the same time so grateful to have had Jim in our lives. He remains with us as a treasured memory. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Naz Crew planted a tree in memory of James King
Friday, April 25, 2025
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Sending all of our love and hugs! The Naz Crew Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Christian Conroy posted a condolence
Friday, April 25, 2025
Jim was a tremendous colleague and mentor to me, and an extraordinary leader whose vision and dedication transformed the New York SBDC into a national model. His work touched the lives of thousands of entrepreneurs and small business owners—not only in New York, but across the country.
Through his passion, creativity, and persistence, Jim built one of the largest and most impactful SBDC programs in the nation. He was a tireless advocate for small business, a trusted partner to many, and a generous mentor who always made time for others.
Jim’s legacy will endure in the businesses he helped launch, the communities he strengthened, and the people he inspired. He will be deeply missed.
Christian Conroy
formerly of America's SBDC
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Michelle Collins posted a condolence
Friday, April 25, 2025
The North Country SBDC is sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Jim truly embodied the spirit of the SBDC mission for all of us. He was a firm but fair leader and we always knew that he valued our work. He was an excellent mentor, never hesitating to offer a word of advice to an advisor or help a new center director grow into their own leadership role. His passion for fostering entrepreneurial success was contagious and it was the fuel that drove the SBDC forward, although he never wanted his efforts to be publicly recognized. We will fondly remember Jim's leadership and dedication to the NYSBDC as well as his love of golf, casinos, and a spirited game of poker. He will always be missed by those of us who had the immense pleasure of working alongside him.
You will be in our thoughts as you grieve his loss. Sincerely, Dale Rice, Michelle Collins and Jennifer McCluskey
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Henry Lee posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Buffy was one of the most pleasant gentlemen in our class. Great bridge player, water basketball player, softball player, and always one of the most welcoming friends. Never skied together, but always talked about it.
Our deepest condolences to all the friends and family. You were lucky to have him as a guiding light for all these years!
Henry Lee
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Julianna Barbee lit a candle
Thursday, April 24, 2025
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I am so sorry to hear about Jim and I am so grateful I had the opportunity to know him. Americas SBDC was so fortunate to have Jims's leadership and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Julianna Barbee
SBDC Director at NNMC
New Mexico SBDC
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Bev Ovrebo posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I was saddened to learn of Jim’s passing. Buffy, as I knew him during “K”Days, was a great athlete, a sweet guy and a good friend. He generously hosted Fran Grimsrud and me for 3 days at his family’s home in Salem, Ohio (during our Career Service hitchhiking across the country adventure). His Mom baked us pies and washed our clothes. Buffy took us to his local bar where I had my first 3% beers (I think it was 3%). I will always remember him as a handsome, athletic young man who had a gift for friendship. My condolences to Lynn and all your family.
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Jody Keenan posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Among his many contributions to the national SBDC program, Jim was a longtime member of America's SBDC Accreditation committee. He visited many SBDC networks during his years on the committee and he was always a voice of encouragement, especially to new leaders. He was a friend to many and will be missed. Jody Keenan, Virginia SBDC
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Allan Adams posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I knew Jim through the national Association of Small Business Development Centers. His impact was felt nationwide in the development of this program. His influence with Congress was critical and his contributions on the national accrediting committee and the national board of directors affected every state and U.S. Territory. The SBDC program is a unique entity in every state and its role and effectiveness is due in no small part to Jim's specific influence on all aspects of what we do and how we do it. A great colleague and personality that will be missed.
Allan Adams
State Director
University of Georgia SBDC
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Kim McLerran lit a candle
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
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Mike Frazier uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 21, 2025
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One of best lasting friendships a guy could as for.
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Love, Bob, Kay, James, Melissa, Michelle, and Craig purchased flowers
Monday, April 21, 2025
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Love, Bob, Kay, James, Melissa, Michelle, and Craig
purchased the Designer's Choice Bouquet and planted a memorial tree for the family of James King.
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Jim you are a wonderful Brother and Uncle to us. We will miss you.
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Love, Bob, Kay, James, Melissa, Michelle, and Craig planted a tree in memory of James King
Monday, April 21, 2025
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Jim you are a wonderful Brother and Uncle to us. We will miss you. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Kim Erickson posted a condolence
Sunday, April 20, 2025
Dear Lynne and family. I, like everyone else, was saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. We had a very good class at Kalamazoo and Buffy was a large part of it. I will miss him like so many others. You are on our prayers.
Kim Erickson
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Vanessa Primus lit a candle
Sunday, April 20, 2025
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My sincerest condolences to the King family. Jim was an extraordinary leader and wonderful human being. His greatness touched so many lives. I will always remember his loving kindness.
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Pauline Soeffing posted a condolence
Saturday, April 19, 2025
My deepest condolences to the King family.
I got to know Jim during the eleven years that I was an advisor with the NYS SBDC. Jim was an incredible and inspiring leader, with a great sense of humor.
Sincerely,
Pauline Soeffing
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Mike, Cindy, Simon, and Julian purchased flowers
Friday, April 18, 2025
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Mike, Cindy, Simon, and Julian
purchased the Designer's Choice Bouquet and planted a memorial tree for the family of James King.
Send Flowers
With loving memories of Uncle Jim, we send our deepest condolences.
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Mike, Cindy, Simon, and Julian planted a tree in memory of James King
Friday, April 18, 2025
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With loving memories of Uncle Jim, we send our deepest condolences. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Mary Hoffman planted a tree in memory of James King
Thursday, April 17, 2025
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In memory of a great boss and colleague. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Mary Hoffman posted a condolence
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Christian Conroy posted this on his LinkedIn page......
I am dismayed and saddened to share the news of the passing of Jim King, longtime State Director of the New York State Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Jim was a tremendous colleague and mentor to me, and an extraordinary leader whose vision and dedication transformed the New York SBDC into a national model. His work touched the lives of thousands of entrepreneurs and small business owners—not only in New York, but across the country. Through his passion, creativity, and persistence, Jim built one of the largest and most impactful SBDC programs in the nation. He was a tireless advocate for small business, a trusted partner to many, and a generous mentor who always made time for others. Jim’s legacy will endure in the businesses he helped launch, the communities he strengthened, and the people he inspired. He will be deeply missed
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Ken Konyha posted a condolence
Thursday, April 17, 2025
After being room mates our senior year at Kalamazoo College, it was wonderful to reconnect in Pentwater. It was a surprise to find that our retirement home was a block away from Jim and Lynn's summer cottage. We walked by the cottage this morning and paid silent homage to Jim. We enjoyed Jim's stories and yes, he did have a lot of one-liners. Lynn, you have our sympathy and condolences.
Ken and Elaine Konyha
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Oswaldo lit a candle
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
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Dear Mrs. Lynne King and Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of James “Jim” King. I had the honor of working within the New York Small Business Development Center (NYSBDC) network, where Jim’s visionary leadership left a profound and lasting impact.
Jim was more than a founding director—he was a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for so many of us. His dedication to serving small businesses and his tireless work to build a network of support across New York State helped shape countless lives and communities. His compassion, wisdom, and unmistakable sense of humor left a legacy that we will continue to carry forward with great pride and gratitude.
I hope you find comfort in knowing that Jim’s memory lives on not only in the work he built but in the people he led, supported, and inspired. May your family find peace in the love and admiration so many of us feel for him.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Oswaldo Rengifo
Business Advisor of the SBDC at York College
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Kris Staertow planted a tree in memory of James King
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
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Jim's unexpected passing is heartbreaking. I share your sadness and will always cherish the wonderful memories of our friendship. My sincere condolences. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Doug Cameron posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Buffy...a great guy at a great college at a great time . Jim was a star player on the best intramural softball team in college history. Lynne, you guys were so lucky to have each other. Doug Cameron K '73
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Andy & Lori Peterson posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Our deepest condolences to the King family over the loss of their beloved father and husband. We will miss the good times spent together, usually over a holiday meal and a Bills game. Your smile and good humor will not be forgotten, rest in peace Jim.
Andy & Lori Peterson
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Georgia Duhan Hopkins lit a candle
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
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Our deepest condolences to you all during this very difficult time.
Salem High School Class of 1969
A Memorial Tree was planted for James King
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of James L. King uploaded a photo
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
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