Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — Dr. James J. O’Toole “Jim” died peacefully on Monday, Oct. 24, 2016, surrounded by his beloved wife Patricia, as well as children, and grandchildren. He was 84 years old.

Born in Queens, N.Y. on Nov. 30, 1931, to James O’Toole and Ellen “Nellie” McAulliffe, both from Ireland, he, together with his twin brother, was the youngest of five children. Jim attended Power Memorial High School and later Christian Brothers Academy, where he excelled at Track and Field. A man of strong Faith, Jim remained a member of the Christian Brothers organization throughout his higher education, and, later, was very active in his local church parishes.

Jim graduated from Iona College in New Rochelle, N.Y., with a degree in English, and went on to obtain a master’s degree from Fordham University and doctorate from St. John’s University in clinical psychology, where he became a tenured professor and chair of the graduate department of education. In addition to his career as a professor, Jim worked as a clinical psychologist and counselor in affiliation with St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, Conn. His dedication to his profession is evidenced by the countless persons who benefited from his assistance and counseling, and the numerous professional accolades he received.

In 1970, Jim met Patricia Ann Boyle of Saratoga Springs, and they were married later that same year. After welcoming their first child in 1971, they moved from New York City to Ridgefield, Conn. where they would remain for over 30 years and raise five children. Jim’s love and devotion to his wife Patti was immense and unwavering, and he was truly blessed to know that joy up to his final moments.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, siblings and his daughter Cristina. In addition to his wife Patricia, Jim is survived by children, Jim, Kathryn, Molly Riordan, and Ted; and grandchildren, Cian, Ella, Guinevere, Zackary, Max, Rowan, Lily, Eleanore “Nellie”, Torin, Emma, and Theodore. Jim is fondly remembered as a loving and dedicated husband, dad, grandfather and friend, and his quick wit, infectious sense of humor and perpetually good cheer will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Services were held at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, N.Y., and St. Clement’s Church on Oct. 27 and 28, 2016. James was laid to rest in his family plot at St. Mary’s Cemetery, South Glens Falls, N.Y.

Contributions in honor of Jim’s memory may be sent to the St. Vincent dePaul Society of St. John’s University, Office of Institutional Advance, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.