James Allen Hotaling, a longtime public servant who spent more than two decades as Brutus town supervisor after a 43-year career with the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District, died June 22 at his home in Jordan. He was 81.
Hotaling's obituary said he died peacefully surrounded by family. Born in Syracuse on Sept. 21, 1944, he was a graduate of Marcellus High School and Cayuga Community College.
Hotaling retired as executive director of the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District after 43 years of service. He later served as Brutus town supervisor for more than 23 years.
His public service also included time on the Jordan-Elbridge School Board and Cayuga County BOCES Board. Earlier in life, he served in the Marines and later as a master sergeant in the Army Reserve.
The obituary credited Hotaling with work on several regional projects, including the revitalization of Falcon Park, improvements to Emerson Park, the regional digester, county office developments, Jordan-Elbridge school enhancements, the Owasco and Skaneateles watersheds and Erie Canal Aqueduct Park.
Hotaling was also known for his work in agriculture, youth programs and maple syrup production. His obituary said he coached youth sports, supported local clubs, mentored young people through the National Envirothon and 4-H, and made Smokey Hollow maple syrup.
He is survived by his wife, Chantell Hotaling; his children, Teena Williams, Michael Hotaling, Melissa Hallinan and Gregory Hotaling; a stepdaughter, Brianna Schooley; nine grandchildren; siblings; nieces; nephews; and two dogs.
Calling hours are scheduled for noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at Elbridge Community Church, 109 E. Main St., Elbridge. A memorial service will follow at 3 p.m.
Donations in Hotaling's memory may be made to the Town of Brutus Aqueduct Park or the Town of Brutus Town Hall Project. Arrangements are being handled by White Chapel Funeral Home in Weedsport.
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