James "Jimmy" Psarakis

James "Jimmy" Psarakis, 93, of Manchester, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 7, 2018, at Villa Crest Nursing and Retirement Center, with his family at his side.

Born in Manchester, he is the son of the late Nicholas and Angeliki Psarakis. Raised and educated in Manchester, Jimmy was a graduate of Central High School and the New England College of Accounting and Commerce. Later, he attended Columbia University.

An honorably discharged veteran, James proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy as the conductor of the Navy band.

A talented musician and businessman, Jimmy entered the music industry following his military service. The former conductor of a swing band, Jimmy was best known as a producer and agent for record companies in Canada and Australia. For many years, Jimmy wrote a music review column for the Union Leader under the pen name "Jim Parks".

After retiring from the music industry, Jimmy was employed by the State of NH as the Supervisor of Industrial Development. He revolutionized the business development statewide. Jimmy promoted the business friendly attributes of New Hampshire, attracting regional and international companies to the state. He most notably developed business parks on East Industrial Drive and surrounding the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.

A devoted husband, brother, uncle, and friend, Jimmy was the pillar of strength for his family. He cherished time spent with family and friends, recalling favorite memories of his worldwide travels. Married at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Jimmy was a longtime and active member of the church. Jimmy will be best remembered as a stoic but charismatic man with an affinity for storytelling.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Georgette (Rivard) Psarakis, with whom he shared nearly 47 years of marriage; sister, Mary Jones of SC; stepdaughter, Carol Proulx and husband Renald of Avon, CT; several nieces, nephews, and extended family in Greece.

ARRANGEMENTS: His Visitation will be held in the St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 650 Hanover St., Manchester, on Friday, July 13 from 10:00 to 11:00A.M. followed by His Funeral Service at 11:00A.M. Committal will be held privately at a later date. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium.