James Nathaniel Drayton III, 72, of Gasport, NY formerly of Franklin, NY passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 22, 2019 at Absolut Care of Gasport following a brief illness.

Born October 25, 1946 in Frederick, MD, he was the son of the late James Nathaniel II and Olivia Robinson Drayton.

James graduated from Franklin Central Schools class of 1965. Upon graduation he went on to attend the University of Buffalo. After college, James moved to New York City to pursue a career as an actor and singer. He had a passion for reading and was a very gifted writer and story teller. James could always paint a vivid picture of whatever story he was telling with his creative words and personality. He will be most remembered for being a wonderful friend to so many and the level of care and respect he showed to everyone he had the privilege to know.

Survivors include his children Erika Jebeli of Baker, CA and Alexander Clement Drayton of New York, NY; brothers Darryl Drayton (Trina) of Sidney Center, NY, Gregory Drayton (Connie) Utica, NY, Terrance Sheppard (Yvonne) of Randallstown, MD and Mark Sheppard (Sharon) of North Carolina; sisters Donna Jackson of Lockport, NY, Robin Sheppard Rideout (Michael) of Randallstown, MD and Lorynda Sheppard Hunt (Mack) of New Jersey; granddaughter Yasmine Jebeli and special cousin John White (Sonia) of Florida. James is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to celebrate James's life will be held on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 1 P.M. at Ouleout Valley Cemetery, NY-357, Franklin with Rev. Edward J. Golding officiating. In keeping with James's wishes, there will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations in James's memory may be made to the Ouleout Valley Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 62, Franklin, NY 13775.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Courtney Funeral Home, Walton. To leave a message of hope and comfort for James's family please visit www.courtneyfh.com