James worked for the State Highway Department for 16 years; later in approximately 2013 he purchased a cab company and then sold it in 2016. James was also very passionate about coaching, basketball, baseball and football throughout Genesee County, however he was most passionate about music and singing, as well as coaching youth baseball. James was a mentor to many youth and truly loved each and every child he came in contact with and if you couldn’t find him on a baseball field then you surely could find him singing karaoke or singing in his band Soul Craft. We will miss his vibrant smile and hardy laughter. We love you Beef and you will truly be missed by all who knew you.
James leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter Rachell (Fred Martino) Soggs of Batavia; son James (Daysha Mast) Soggs 3rd of Batavia; three sisters Cassandra Burney of Georgia; Cynthia (Robert) Thurston of Batavia; Lisa Soggs of Buffalo; three brothers Robert (Penny) Burney of Texas; Thomas (Jackie) Burney of Florida; David (Eleanor) Soggs of Buffalo; grandchildren Karvel Martino, Jaquari Martino, Kyrie Soggs all of Batavia, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, step-children and friends.
Friends are invited to call on Saturday March 25, 2017 from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM at The City Church 210 East Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. Services will immediately follow at 1:00 PM. He will be laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery, Batavia.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family to be distributed to various charities. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to leave a message of condolence visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.
