GEBHART, JAMES HARRY

65, passed away on December 1, 2015 in his home, after a long struggle with Lewy Body Dementia, surrounded by his family and caregivers. Son of the late Howard and Emma Gebhart, James is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Eileen and Daniel Moffit, with whom he lived, and his niece and her husband, Amy and Ryan Blackman, all of Bayonne. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. Born in Staten Island, NY on September 5, 1950, when children with Down syndrome were not expected to live past their teenage years, James managed to lead a full and rewarding life, reaching his 65th birthday this past September. James was a participant at The Windmill Center at Trinity Episcopal Church from 1995 until 2004, where he made many new friends among the staff and other participants. He also participated in the Ability Day Camp, Tuesday Evening, and Summer Day Camp programs. He was a member of the Exceptional Children’s Social Club on Staten Island since the late 1960’s. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James’ memory to Exceptional Children’s Social Club, 38 Barton Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10306. Funeral arrangements by MEISLOHN-SILVIE Funeral Home, 1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY.

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