Saratoga Springs, NY - James Walter Parham, a long time resident of Saratoga Springs and a World War II veteran, passed away Wednesday (Sept. 16, 2009) at Saratoga Hospital. He was 87. Born on March 25, 1922 in Winston Salem, NC, he was the son of the late Walter and Icie McWhiter Parham. He graduated from Adkins High School in Winston Salem and thereafter attended Knoxville College in Knoxville, TN on a football/academic scholarship. In September 1942, he joined the US Army and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon honorable discharge from the Army, "Jim", as he was called by his many friends, worked for the General Electric Company in Schenectady, NY and retired in 1982 after 31 years of service. In addition to his years with GE, Jim was a parimutuel cashier at the Saratoga Raceway for many years. He also served as a traffic officer with the Saratoga Springs Police Dept. during the racing season. Jim was also a master gardener with the Cornell University Cooperative Extension in Saratoga County. Over the years, he was a member of the Frederick Allen Lodge #609 IBPOE of W, the Prince Hall Masonic Temple, the American Legion and the Bethesda Episcopal Church Guild. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by four brothers and two sisters. James is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Pearl O. McGhee Parham of Saratoga Springs; his son James B. Parham and daughter-in-law Loretta of Atlanta, GA; nieces Vicki Adams and Pamela Harper of Winston Salem, NC; granddaughter Francia Greer of Cleveland, OH; grandsons Scott and Walter Parham of Atlanta and Quantrell Parham of Richmond, VA; 12 great grandchildren and his devoted godson, David Mike Plaskett of Saratoga Springs. Relatives and friends may call from 6 to 8pm Tuesday (Sept. 22, 2009) at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (584-5373). Funeral services will be at 12 noon Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.