James R. FANTON, 78, of Wellsville, NY, died Tuesday, August 18, 2026 in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. 

Born January 11, 1948, in Wellsville, he was the son of Raymond Glenn and Mildred Pearl Perry Fanton. On February 19, 2000, in Wellsville, he married Barbara M. Blouvet, who survives. A 1966 graduate of Wellsville High School, Jim was a dairy farmer his whole life and hauled sawdust and minerals for Fanton Trucking. He also owned JB’s in Wellsville for many years. Jim was a past member of the Wellsville Moose Lodge #601. He enjoyed bowling on the Monday league, playing softball, Thursday nights going out to town, watching his soaps, game shows, and the Yankees. Jim and Barb spent many years traveling to South Carolina in the winter to spend time with family. 

Surviving besides his wife, Barb, are: five children, Lisa (John) Fanton-Stokes of Wellsville, Lori (Bradley) Fanton-Phillips of Landrum, SC, Ray Fanton of Wellsville, Bradley (Tess) Fanton of AZ, and Nichole Yoo of AZ; three step-sons, Bruce (Jen) Perry of Scio, Jon Perry of Olean, and Justin Perry of Scio; 21 grandchildren, Justin, Brandon, Nicholas, Josh, Jason, Jeremy, Emily, Renee, Andrew, Dylan, Mina, Luna, Alex, Evan, Brock, Ryland, Tucker, Paige, Paisley, Caden, and Hunter; 12 great-grandchildren and one on the way; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers, Bob Fanton, Ken Fanton, and Lester Fanton; a daughter-in-law, Tina J. Fanton; and a grandson, David Hanson, Jr. 

Friends may call Friday, August 28, 2026 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, where Funeral Services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 AM. Please wear casual clothes for the service. Burial will be in Stannards Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to Willing Volunteer Fire Department. 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.