James Empfield Obituary

James E. Empfield, 73, of Tarentum, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025, surrounded by loving friends and family. Born Nov. 1, 1951, in McKeesport to the late Charles and Irene Kanyak Empfield, he graduated from Westinghouse Memorial High School. Jim was a bus driver for the Port Authority of Allegheny County for over 25 years, retiring at age 50, and then worked as a funeral director assistant at Ross G. Walker Funeral Home Ltd., of New Kensington, for 14 years. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and friends. He leaves behind his wife of 23 years, Sandra L. Hollenbaugh Empfield; daughter, Jaclyn (Justin) Scherrbaum; granddaughter, Sloane Scherrbaum; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Hollenbaugh; brothers-in-law, Thomas (Michelle) Hollenbaugh and Michael Hollenbaugh; sister-in-law, Dawn Empfield; and many great friends, including Bob Thompson and Patrick Fitzpatrick. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Empfield; and sister, Sharon Jordon. He fought a good fight through multiple illnesses. He was Sandy's hero, best friend, and the best husband anyone could have. It was Jim's wish that all services remain private. ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD., of New Kensington, was entrusted with the arrangements.