ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)— Former Elmira Mayor and city council member Jim Hare passed away on Monday, Mar. 16.
Hare graduated from the State University at Albany with a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s Degree in Social Studies.
Southern Tier welcomes new locally owned food businesses
Hare was a Vietnam veteran who served from 1969 to 1971. He taught American History and Government at Elmira City School District.
He was involved in many community affairs, including serving as the founder of the Friends of Woodlawn Cemetery and as president of the Elmira Little Theatre.
“First of all, Jim had an appetite for history like no other and perhaps second only to his passion for local politics. History was the mean, but politics was the desert for Jim, and he was very good at it,” said Stephen Hughes, Former City of Elmira Mayor.
Cornell researchers find new way to store maple sap
Hare’s contributions go far beyond his time in elected office. For many who knew him, he will be remembered for his long-lasting contributions to the area.
“He loved this community, loved Elmira, which was very people-oriented, and Jim was just an amazing, amazing person. It’s a very sad loss for Elmira, ” said Mary Collins, Chemung County Board of Elections Democratic Commissioner.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM – MyTwinTiers.com.