James D. "Moose" Howe

October 6, 1950 - October 25, 2026

James D. "Moose" Howe, 76, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love, hard work, generosity, and devotion to his family.

From an early age, James understood the importance of family and responsibility. His natural instinct to protect, provide for, and care for his siblings would become one of the defining qualities of his life. Together with his late wife, Joan "Sunshine" Howe, he built a beautiful life centered around their five children. Through good times and difficult times alike, James made certain his family always had food on the table, clothes on their backs, a roof over their heads, and the comfort of knowing they could always count on him.

A hardworking man throughout his life who would do anything necessary to provide for his family, in addition to owning and operating several businesses, he worked in many different capacities over the years. His working life included Binghamton Psychiatric Center, Norman's Warehouse, Cortese Restaurant, Chris's Hotdog Stand, Joanie's Corner Market, Saint Paul's Church, Durty Nelly's, Bob's Diner, Chenango Valley High School, the Broome County Jail/Sheriff's Department, Howe's Tavern, and Sarah's Pub & Good Food. Whether running his own business, working in a kitchen, or lending a helping hand wherever needed, everything he did was rooted in his determination to make sure they were always taken care of.

Deeply connected to the Binghamton community, James seemed to know someone everywhere he went. From backyard mechanics to roofers, plasterers, builders, and business owners, he had friendships and connections with people from all walks of life. More importantly, he knew how to bring people together. If someone needed shelter, food, clothing, a job, or simply a helping hand, Dad always seemed to know just the right person to call. He was generous with his time, his knowledge, and whatever resources he had available, often helping others without expecting anything in return.

James was a familiar face and beloved personality throughout the Binghamton area, particularly through his years at Howe's Tavern and Sarah's Pub. His quick wit, lively banter, colorful stories, and unmistakable personality made him someone people would not soon forget. He had a way of making people laugh, striking up a conversation with just about anyone, and leaving a lasting impression wherever he went.

Above all else, James was a family man. His greatest accomplishments were not measured by the businesses he owned or the many jobs he held, but by the family he raised, the people he helped, and the countless lives he touched along the way. His love, guidance, strength, and unwavering devotion will remain with his family for generations to come.

James is survived by his five devoted children: Sarah Howe and her companion, Sam Rotella, Rachel Corey and her husband, Michael, Adam Howe and his wife, Gwendolyn, Matthew Howe and his wife, Farah and Elizabeth Kirby and her husband, Brad.

He also leaves behind 15 beloved grandchildren: Ashley Corey, Nate Corey, James Howe, Sofiah Corey, Hannah Hargus, Christian Sindon (Hailey), Madison Hargus, Hunter Howe, Haylee Howe, Destany Howe, Romeo Howe, Jayden Howe, Braxtan Kirby, Brydan Kirby, and Johannah Kirby; along with three cherished great-grandchildren: Aurorah Hargus, Makai Michie, and Ella Louise Sindon.

James is also survived by his siblings: Joyce McCloe, Linda Sabine, Ronald Howe (Carolyn), Richard Howe, Denise Howe (Dale), and Vicki Marold (Marty); his sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Theresa and Roger Congdon and Patricia (Dudek) Royer; as well as several nieces and nephews whom he held close to his heart.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan "Sunshine" Howe; his parents, Maxwell Howe and Delores Howe Marold; his stepfather, Harold Marold; his parents-in-law, Clara and John Crowe; his sister-in-law, Susan (Dudek) Smith and husband Vaughn Smith; his brothers-in-law, Albert Zeitz and Ted McCloe; his uncle, Kenneth Howe Sr.; and his cousin, Hank Flessa aka Hammer.

The family extends a special thank you to our cousin, Cody Ellett, who lovingly cared for our father through his last days, and to our wonderful, loving friends who have steadfastly been there by our sides throughout the years.

James will be remembered as a man who worked hard, loved deeply, helped freely, and always put his family first. Though his presence will be greatly missed, his stories, laughter, and the lessons he passed along will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in Peace our dear Pops. We comfort ourselves in knowing you are now reunited in heaven with our beautiful mother.

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to support pancreatic disease and diabetes research. To forward condolences please visit www.demunn.com. Arrangements for the family are directed by the DeMunn Funeral Home and Cremation Service.