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James Corsetti - NFA Teacher
Submitted by Fran Olson Gustafson 1965 <fgustafson917@gmail.com> on 06/Aug/2026
71.223.70.96
 James Malcolm Corsetti, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and
dedicated member of the Newburgh community, passed away peacefully on August 6,
2026, at his longtime home on Roe Street, where he had resided for 78 years. He
was 96 years old.
James was a man defined by dedication, compassion, and
service. Throughout his life, he touched countless lives through his career as
an educator and guidance counselor, his devotion to his parish, and his decades
of volunteer work within the Newburgh community.
Born and raised in
Schuylerville, New York, to Gaetano and Mary Corsetti, James was one of nine
children. Growing up in a modest home, he learned early on the importance of
family, hard work, and the value of contributing to one's community—principles
that guided him for the rest of his life.
Determined to broaden his
horizons, James attended the State University of New York at Albany, where he
earned a Bachelor's degree in Education. He later obtained a Master's degree in
Administration from Plattsburgh State University. Following his academic
pursuits, James enlisted in the United States Air Force and served honorably.
After his military service, James moved to Newburgh, New York, to begin a
teaching career at Newburgh Free Academy (NFA) in 1956. Initially teaching
business, he soon transitioned into school counseling, where his genuine care
for his students' success became his hallmark.
As a guidance counselor at
Newburgh Free Academy, James became much more than an educator. He was a mentor,
advocate, and father figure to countless young people. His students
affectionately called him "Jake," a nickname they sometimes used so that school
officials would not know whom they were talking about when they were discussing
their favorite counselor.
James also served as the moderator of the Key
Club, a student organization dedicated to service and giving back to the school
and the larger community. His commitment to his students extended well beyond
the school day and continued long after they graduated.
His impact on his
students was evident throughout his children's lives. As Darren, Damien, and
Deana grew older, they were often approached by people in the community who
recognized them as James's children. They would frequently hear, "Your dad was
like a father to me," "Your dad did so much for me and my family," or "Your dad
was the only person who believed in me." These comments were a testament to the
profound impact James had on the lives of the young people he served.
Though he once believed he might remain a lifelong bachelor, everything changed
when he met Sandra Espejo, a fellow teacher. They married in 1971 and shared 53
wonderful years together, raising three children: Darren, Damien, and Deana.
James retired at the age of 61 after dedicating 35 years to the Newburgh
School District. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. He quickly
became involved with the Newburgh branch of Meals on Wheels, where he delivered
meals to community members in need, managed the organization's finances, and
served as an active member of its Board of Directors. He continued his service
with Meals on Wheels well into his 90s.
James was also a devoted member
of Sacred Heart Church, where his wife, Sandra, volunteered her time. His faith
and his commitment to helping others were important parts of his life.
Outside of work and community service, James had many passions. He loved sports
and was a loyal fan of the New York Mets and New York Jets. Many weekends found
him watching his favorite teams after completing another project in the yard.
James was also known for having a remarkable "green thumb." He took great pride
in his yard and gardens and seemed to possess an uncanny ability to bring even
the most struggling plants back to life.
Above all, James was a devoted
family man. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren and cherished
the time he spent with them. His life was defined not by what he accomplished
for himself, but by what he did for others.
James is survived by his
children, Darren Corsetti and his wife, Megan; Damien Corsetti and his wife,
Wendy; and Deana Tucker and her husband, Steven. He is also survived by his
grandchildren, Ava and Jake Corsetti; Angelina, Annabelle, and Anthony Corsetti;
and James, Steven, and Maria Tucker.
James "Jake" Corsetti leaves behind
a remarkable legacy of love, compassion, service, and dedication. He spent his
life believing in others, helping those in need, and making his community a
better place. His influence will live on through his family, his former
students, and the countless people who were fortunate enough to know him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends,
former students, and the community he served so selflessly.
Visitation
will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Brooks
Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Avenue, Newburgh, New York. A Funeral Mass will follow
at 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 301 Ann Street, Newburgh, New York. - May
25, 1930 ~ August 6, 2026
In lieu of flowers you can help support Meals
on Wheels of Greater Newburgh to continue to provide nutritious meals for the
elderly, disabled and those confined to their homes, please click the link
below.
https://www.givegab.com/donations/new?group_id=meals-on-wheels-of-greater-newburgh-inc
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 14th from 10:00am-1:00pm at Brooks Funeral Home located at 481 Gidney Avenue, Newburgh, NY.
A Mass of the Christian burial will be held at Sacred Heart Church at 2:00pm on Tuesday, July 21st located at 301 Ann St, Newburgh, NY
a graveside service will take place at Chester Rural Cemetery in Chestertown, NY on Tuesday, August 18th at 12:00pm located on Little Tannery Road and US Route 9, Chestertown, NY.
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