James R. Piazza II

James “Jim” Robert Piazza II, of Niskayuna, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, with his loving family by his side. 

He was born in Utica on May 2, 1969, the first son of James Piazza and the late Elisabeth (Austin) Piazza. 

Jim was a graduate of Burnt Hills–Ballston Lake High School and went on to earn his A.S. in Automotive Mechanics from Hudson Valley Community College. He later completed his vocational teaching certification in Automotive Technology through SUNY Oswego—a credential that would help him inspire countless students throughout his career. A gifted craftsman with a lifelong passion for restoration, Jim enjoyed reviving classic automobiles, from muscle cars to vintage Volkswagens. He took great pride in every project he touched, including painting his best friend Dave Ludke’s 1969 Oldsmobile 442. Some of his happiest moments were spent in the garage working on his pickup truck alongside his son, Jake. One of Jim’s favorite hobbies was target shooting, a pastime he found peaceful. He enjoyed learning about the history of firearms, and as a member of the Guan Ho Ha Fish and Game Club since the early 1990s, he further honed his skills by reloading ammunition which he found rewarding.

For more than two decades, Jim taught Vocational Automotive Services and Small Engine Repair at Capital Region BOCES. Teaching was not just his job but his craft and his joy. His classroom was a place where students felt seen, supported, and challenged. Jim’s patience and positive energy made him especially skilled at reaching young people who learned best by doing—students who needed someone to believe in their potential before they could see it themselves. He also dedicated over five years to the Schenectady County Auxiliary Police, furthering his commitment to community and public service. Above all, Jim was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. His wisdom, humor, and reassuring presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Paula Negri; his beloved son, Jake Piazza; his father, James Piazza; his sister, Kelly Piazza Shimkus (David Shimkus); his brother, Nicholas Piazza (Angela Piazza); and his sister-in-law, Jacqueline Negri (Michael Feldman). He is also survived by his cherished nieces—Ava, Alayna, and Alea Shimkus; Claire, Emily, and Maeve Piazza; and Nicole Feldman (Tyler Lindsey) and Danielle Feldman. He leaves behind his Aunt Regina Winkler and her son, Michael Winkler (Sarah), along with many beloved cousins and friends.

Calling hours will be held at St. John the Evangelist Church, 806 Union St, Schenectady, NY 12308 on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial to immediately follow. Interment to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Schenectady. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of James Piazza II to the Neurology Department at Albany Medical Center, c/o Albany Medical Center Foundation, 43 New Scotland Ave., MC-119, Albany, NY 12208, or by visiting support.amc.edu/givenow. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mohawk Ambulance, the Niskayuna Fire Department, and the dedicated staff of the SICU/Neuro ICU at Albany Medical Center for their exceptional care and support.