Obituary of Rev. James J. Clemens

Rev. James J. Clemens, 81, of Macedon, NY, died Sunday, March 27, 2022, at Laurel House Comfort Care Home in Newark, NY.

He was born November 23, 1940, in Delano, PA to James and Mabel Clemens. Jim graduated from Eastern Pilgrim High School in 1958. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Roberts Wesleyan College in 1962 and completed two more bachelor’s degrees in Bible and theology in 1965 from United Wesleyan College.

Jim met the love of his life, Janice Walker Holmes from Trumbull, CT, at United Wesleyan College and a year and a half later they were married at Bethany Wesleyan Church by Rev. Phillip Doyle July 25, 1964. They were married for 57 years, and he cherished the reality of God’s love and grace in their lives together.

Jim served as a Pastor in Mountaintop, PA and at the Wesleyan Church in Westfield, PA, and then he was called to Penfield Wesleyan Church in Penfield, NY where he ministered from January 1975 through 2007. After thirty-two and a half years at Penfield Wesleyan and a total of forty-two years in pastoral ministry, he retired in July 2007. Jim's work ethic was unmatched. He loved serving the Lord and the congregation at Penfield – as he stated “It is impossible to put into words the privilege and joy of serving at Penfield Wesleyan Church. The people were some of the most wonderful people on this earth.”

Jim was an avid fisherman, hunter, and marksman throughout his life, and in retirement he became a skilled woodworker and cycling enthusiast. His wonderful example of service, godliness and his fierce love for his family will always be remembered.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Clemens and Mabel Clemens, and his sister, JoAnn McCutcheon and her husband, Holly. Jim is survived by his wife, Jan; daughter, Amanda Clemens Tudor (Dave) of Lexington, KY; daughter, Amy Jo Clemens Noyes (Tom) of Erie, PA; four grandchildren, Josie Noyes and Wyatt Noyes of Erie, PA; Joshua Tudor and Andrew Tudor of Lexington, KY; and sister, Carol Betsill of Stuart’s Draft, VA.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for Sunday, April 24 at 2 pm at Penfield Wesleyan Church, 1580 Five Mile Line Rd., Penfield, NY 14526. The burial service for family members will be at Webster Cemetery.

The Clemens’ family is so grateful to the hospice team that cared for us all during this sad time. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you send donations to Laurel House Comfort Care Home, 224 Fair Street, Newark, NY 14513.