Former New York state senator James Seward died on July 27 at the age of 72 after battling cancer. (File Photo)

NEW YORK – James L. Seward, a longtime New York State senator, died of cancer on July 27 at the age of 72. In a press release, his former Chief of Staff, Duncan S. Davie, announced his death.

Seward was born in Oneonta on August 11, 1951. He received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from Hartwick College.

Seward was first elected to the State Senate in 1986 to represent New York’s 50th district. He was then appointed chairman of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee and, in 1999, chairman of the Senate Standing Committee.

Seward represented the 50th district until 2002. In 2003, he was elected senator to represent New York’s 51st district. He served in several leadership positions within the Senate. In November 2019, Seward shared in a statement that he was undergoing treatment for recurring bladder cancer. In 2020, he announced he would not seek re-election.

In addition to his Senate career, Seward served as a Milford town justice and chairman of the Otsego County Republican Committee. He resided in Milford with his wife, Cynthia. The Sewards have two adult children, Ryan and Lauren.

Several political figures across the State of New York expressed their condolences at Seward’s passing. One was Senator Peter Oberacker, who currently represents the state’s 51st district.

“This morning, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Jim Seward, a true icon in New York State politics. As we mourn his loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to Cindy and the entire Seward family, we also pause to celebrate a life well-lived,” Oberacker said. “Jim’s legacy, respected by both sides of the aisle, will be remembered with great admiration. I will forever cherish the time I spent with Jim, his invaluable counsel, insightful perspectives, and profound wisdom.”

Senate Republican leader Rob Ortt also issued a statement remembering his “friend, colleague and mentor.”

“​​We will remember Senator Seward for being an outstanding voice for Upstate and always ensuring his district was well represented. We thank him for his many years of service to them and our state,” Ortt said. “Please join me and our Republican conference in our prayers and support for the Seward family during this difficult time. God bless Senator Seward, and may his legacy live on through his tremendous accomplishments.”

Us Representative Marc Molinaro, who represents New York’s 19th congressional district, sent his regards to Seward’s family and reflected on Seward’s impact on New York state politics.

“It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of former New York Senator James Seward, a public servant whose leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on his community and his state. As we honor his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of New Yorkers, his legacy of integrity, passion, and profound decency will never be forgotten. Corinne and I extend our deepest condolences to his wife Cynthia, their children Ryan and Lauren, and their entire family.”

A full obituary appears on page 9.