In Memoriam
James L. Seward
August 11, 1951-July 27, 2024
(Photo by Tara Barnwell)
MILFORD—James L. Seward, 72, of Milford, New York passed away on July 27, 2024 after a valiant and years-long fight against cancer. He was born on August 11, 1951 to Wes and Vivian Seward of Cliffside, Maryland, and educated in Oneonta public schools, graduating with the OHS class of 1969. He earned a BA in political science from Hartwick College in 1973, and undertook graduate studies at the Rockefeller School of Government at SUNY Albany. In 1999, Hartwick College conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree upon their noted alumnus.
But 1973 was significant for more than a college degree: On June 30 of that year, Jim married the love of his life, Cynthia Milavec of Schenevus. They enjoyed 51 years of marriage; the highlight of his life and an example to many.
After dipping his toe into elective office with two Assembly runs and a town justice position, Jim was elected to the State Senate in 1986, representing the 50th Senatorial District. He retired in 2020 after serving 17 successful terms marked by excellence, dedication, integrity and commitment to the best of public service. At one time or another, he represented all or parts of Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Greene, Herkimer, Otsego, Schoharie, Tompkins and Ulster counties.
In his first term, he was appointed chairman of the Senate Energy & Telecommunications Committee, championing innovative legislation like the “Power for Jobs” program and working to reduce utility costs and consumers’ energy bills.