James W. Ashcraft, Jr., 81, of Lockport, NY passed away surrounded by family on October 31, 2025 after a  brief illness.

Jim was born to James and Bertha (Schisa) Ashcraft in Syracuse , NY. He grew up in Hammond NY before moving to Lockport. He went on to earn a degree in accounting at Niagara Community College.

He began his career at Farmers and Mechanic Bank, kickstarting his lifetime in finance.  Jim worked for  the City of Lockport Treasurer’s Office for 37 years, 26 of them as Chief Financial Officer.

Jim served his country as a member of the NYS Army National Guard and  Army Reserves, eventually retiring in 2005.  He was past -president of the NYS Finance Officers Society.  Very active in supporting the youth in Lockport, he was a Life Member of the Lockport Sunrise Optimist Club.

Jim and Mary Jo lived life to its fullest, splitting seasons  in Lockport and Port St Lucie, FL.  Golf was always on his calendar, but Jim’s first priority was his family and friends. He centered his life around Mary Jo, his daughters, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

Jim was predeceased by his parents and his sister Jane. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary J.  (McConnaghy), sister Elaine Rowland (Jay), daughters Denise Nagle (Gerry), Rebecca McWilliams (Charles Loiacano) , grandchildren Isabella Stuckey (Dylan), Hannah McWilliams (Matthew Babis, Sr.) Lily Nagle, and Colin McWilliams.Two great grandchildren Zylah and Matthew Babis Jr. and a crazy family tree filled with sisters and brothers in-law, nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to visitation Thursday, Nov. 6th from 4-7 PM at Prudden And Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Nov.  7th at 10 AM at St. John the Baptist RC Church, 168 Chestnut Street, Lockport.  In lieu of flowers, friends can make a donation to the charity of their choice in memory of Jim.