James Elwood Uptegraph, 79 of Creekside, died at his home, early Saturday morning, May 30, 2026. Born November 26, 1946, in Indiana, he was the son of the late Harold Uptegraph and Ada Catherine (Bash) Uptegraph. He was the husband of the former Sarah A. Rhea, whom he married, March 6, 2021.
A graduate of Elderton High School, one of his first jobs was working for his parents at the former Uptegraph Exxon & Market. Jim later worked for Local Union # 3 as an iron worker. He had also been a co-owner of the Uptegraph Archery Shop in South Bend.
Jim was a member of the Independent Traditional Holiness Church, Homer City.
He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He also enjoyed watching baseball and football games where he faithfully cheered for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. He especially loved his family where he was “Pap” for his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah A. Uptegraph, Creekside and by the following children: Susan Schrecengost (Eric) of Shelocta; Carolyn Devereaux (John) of Sarver and Michael Uptegraph (Holly) of Creekside. He will also be missed by his eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his 2nd wife, Sherryl (Beveridge) Uptegraph who died, May 10, 2016.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2nd from 2 to 4 PM at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory, where his funeral service will begin at four o’clock with Rev. Dr. Angel De La Cruz officiating. Interment will be held at a later date at South bend Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Independent Traditional Holiness Church, P.O. Box 34, Homer City, PA 15748.
Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net.
