James J. Pyra, 77
ADAMS, Mass. — Mr. James J. Pyra, 77, of Adams, died on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Albany Medical Center.
He was born in Pittsfield on July 23, 1948, son of the late Edward and Jane (Danecki) Pyra. He attended schools in Adams and graduated from the former Adams Memorial High School with the class of 1967. He then went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics in 1971 and his master’s in education in 1977, both from the former North Adams State College.
Jim was a mathematics teacher for many years for the Pittsfield Public School District, having worked at PHS, Crosby, Reid and eventually retiring from Taconic High School.
Jim was a communicant of St. Mary's of the Assumption Church, Cheshire. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Carole A. St. Cyr, whom he married on September 7, 1970; his son Jacob Pyra and his fiancé Renee Durfee of Pittsfield; his daughter Beth Delaney of Lincoln Park, NJ and by many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother Gerald Pyra and by his sister Lorraine Robinson.
He enjoyed cooking for his friends and family, and being outdoors whether it was walking, hiking, biking or snowshoeing. Jim was also a devoted kayaker and proudly participated several times in the Great Josh Billings Run-Aground. He was an avid New York Giants fan and never missed a game whether he wanted to or not. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and most recently developed a love for cruises. He adored all animals, especially his former grand-dogs Winston (English Bulldog) and Toby (Dachshund) and never shied away from taking them for walks or rides.
The funeral will be held on Monday, April 20th at 10:00 A.M. in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Cheshire. Burial will be at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Calling hours are Sunday from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the PACIOREK FUNERAL HOME, 13 Hoosac St., Adams.
The family requests the omission of flowers and suggests memorial donations be made to St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 191 Church St., Cheshire, MA 01225 or to the Berkshire Humane Society, 214 Barker Rd., Pittsfield, MA 01201.
The family would also like to acknowledge the great care given by Northern Berkshire EMS, North Adams Hospital and especially Albany Medical Center.
To leave a message of condolence, or for directions, please go to www.paciorekfuneral.com.
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