James Paul Mayer, 53, of Wellsboro, PA passed away peacefully at home after an extended illness on March 15, 2024.  James was born on May 4, 1970 in Elmira NY, a son of the late Sheldon and Barbara (Crane) Mayer.  James grew up in Elmira, NY and graduated from the Boces program in 1993.  Shortly after his graduation, James joined the US Army National Guard.  During his service, he was sent to NYC after the 9/11 attack for search and rescue and subway detail.  About a year later, James was deployed to Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom.  James demonstrated true valor, honor and commitment to his country as he proudly served.  James could be summed up in three words: family, God and country. James loved to help others whether it was just taking someone somewhere or to help fix whatever needed to be done.  There was no job too big for him to try to tackle.  He loved to go camping with his family, play his video games, and watch his army movies (shows) in his free time.  Despite all this hobbies, nothing gave James more joy than the time he spent with this family; this above all was his greatest and most treasured passion.  In the 53 years that James lived, he was so many things to so many people.  He was a son, a brother, a hero, a husband, a dad, a papa, an uncle and friend.  James truly had a heart of gold, always looking out for others, lending a listening ear, or his arms for a hug.  James did not live for just his happiness but for the happiness of others.  He was taken from us far too soon, but leaves behind a legacy and a lifetime of memories that will forever be in our hearts.  James is survived by his two boys Brandon (Courtney) Mayer of Wellsboro, PA and Giovanni Mayer of Elmira, NY, stepsons Trevor Greene, Ryan Mayer, Allen Taylor and Dakota Taylor all of Elmira, NY.  Grandchildren: Samantha Mayer and Braden Mayer of Wellsboro, PA, the lights of his life. Brothers:  Sheldon (Anna) Mayer Jr and Matt Mayer of Elmira, NY, and numerous family and friends.  Dad, we will miss you immensely, you were our “go-to” when life got rough, you were never far away.  We are so proud of who you were and what you achieved in your short time here with us, always giving 110% on all you did.  We love you dad and will never forget you.  Interment will be in the Bath National Cemetery with Military Honors.  Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA.