June 26, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 108 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E842]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





   CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND CAREER OF THE HONORABLE JAMES TORMEY III

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                            HON. JOHN KATKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 26, 2019

  Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life and career of 
the Honorable James Tormey III, a beloved father and husband, 
distinguished judge, and honorable public servant, who passed away on 
June 22, 2019.
   A 1972 graduate of SUNY Cortland, and 1976 graduate of Syracuse 
University College of Law, Judge Tormey committed much of his life to 
public service. Serving on the Onondaga County Legislature for ten 
years, and later, as a Syracuse City Court Judge, Supreme Court Justice 
and District Administrative Judge for the 5th Judicial District of New 
York, Jim Tormey earned the respect, praise and trust of many in our 
community.
   Over the course of his esteemed judicial career, Judge Tormey took a 
measured approach in upholding the law and applying it fairly. He 
firmly believed in the justice system and worked to ensure everyone had 
access to it.
   As District Administrative Judge, Judge Tormey supervised the 
operations and schedules of more than 300 judges serving in the Fifth 
Judicial District -- many of whom, since his passing this week, have 
shared stories of his strong leadership, his commitment to ensuring 
justice, and his respect for all. They have spoken of his commitment to 
continued legal education and pro bono work, and, importantly, of his 
friendship, mentorship and distinguished leadership.
   Judge Tormey was committed to making Central New York a better 
place, and the impact of his work went far beyond the courtroom. He 
used his role to address some of the most pressing issues plaguing our 
community--overseeing the establishment of local Drug Courts, Opioid 
Courts, Human Trafficking Court, Youthful Offender Court, and Community 
Court for lower level offenders. His dedication to Central New York was 
visible in all of his actions and he will be truly missed.
   Above all, Judge Tormey was a family man, and deeply loved his wife, 
Sue, their children Andrew and Colleen, and his grandchildren. I ask my 
colleagues to keep them in mind, as we honor and remember the life of 
this devoted civil servant.

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