Rev. Msgr. M. James Lutz, age 93, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Masonic Care Community. Father Jim was born in Utica on November 17, 1931, to Martin and Mary Agnes (Crave) Lutz.
He attended John T. Hughes Elementary School and graduated from Utica Free Academy. Father continued his education at St. Bonaventure University, St. Lawrence University, and St. Bernard’s Seminary, Rochester, on his journey to the priesthood.
Ordained on February 3, 1958, Father Jim served many area parishes, including St. Anthony’s, Chadwicks, St. Paul’s, Whitesboro, St. Francis Xavier, Marcellus, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Syracuse, and St. Ann’s, Manlius. His special assignments included Lucian Guild, Syracuse Power Squadron, Alhambra, CCD Executive Committee and as Director of Propagation of the Faith for the Syracuse Diocese for 16 years. Among the many highlights of his priesthood, Father Jim especially treasured being named a Monsignor and the unforgettable experience of meeting Pope John Paul II.
To read the obituary in full, go to https://www.nunnandmcgrath.com/obituaries/Rev-Msgr-M-James-Lutz?obId=46374128.
