James F. Borden

James Fay Borden, lovingly known as Jim or Jimmy, of Springville, Pennsylvania, passed away on September 27, 2026, at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Jim lived a life guided by faith, integrity, hard work, and a deep love for his family.

Born on March 4, 1951, at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, Jim was the son of Joseph Roy Borden and Betty Mae Hammond Borden. He grew up on North Road in the village of Holliday, in the family home that had once belonged to Wesley and Minnie Knapp Borden. His childhood was rooted in family, tradition, and the value of learning through hands-on work.

At age 10, Jim began a paper route and worked in the family business, J. P. Borden and Son, which included auto repair, sporting goods, appliances, machining, and gunsmithing. His paternal grandparents, Joseph Palmer Borden and Erna Blanche Westbrook Borden, were important mentors in his life. From an early age, Jim learned auto mechanics, electrical work, plumbing, heating, and masonry, developing the curiosity and practical skills that would shape his future.

Outside of work, Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family. He also had a love of photography, finding joy in capturing moments and preserving memories. His love of the outdoors and photography remained with him throughout his life. So did his faith in God and his belief in Jesus Christ as his Savior, which provided a foundation of strength and purpose.

Jim graduated from Wellsboro Area High School in June 1969 and began his studies at Pennsylvania State University that September. While attending college, he married Joan Elaine Plumley on November 7, 1970. Joan was the daughter of Francis Erwin Plumley, his father's best friend. Jim and Joan both worked while he completed his education, beginning a partnership built on dedication, perseverance, and love.

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering on March 24, 1973. Together, he and Joan raised three children: James Joseph, John Francis, and Andrea Lynne.

On March 26, 1973, Jim began his career at Charmin Paper Products, later Procter & Gamble. Throughout his career, he served in numerous roles in maintenance management, engineering leadership, project management, human resources training, and product development. He became a registered Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania in April 1982. He also shared his knowledge as an instructor for Penn State during the 1980s and 1990s, teaching review courses for aspiring engineers preparing for their professional examinations. Jim retired from Procter & Gamble on December 2, 1994.

In 1987, Jim founded Borden Accuracy, also known as Borden Rifles, bringing together his engineering expertise, craftsmanship, and lifelong passion for shooting. His commitment to precision and quality became the foundation of the business and a lasting part of his legacy.

Jim was also an accomplished benchrest competitor, winning 11 national championships and setting 10 world records. He served multiple terms as president of International Benchrest Shooters and was inducted into the United States Benchrest Shooting Hall of Fame in May 1997. He generously shared his experience and knowledge, contributing to the sport as both a competitor and a leader.

For all his professional accomplishments, Jim's greatest legacy lives in his family and in the lessons he passed along. He understood the value of doing things carefully, keeping one's word, and sharing what one knows. Whether working, teaching, or spending time outdoors with those he loved, Jim led by example.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Elaine Plumley Borden; his son, James Joseph Borden and wife Joyce; his daughter, Andrea Lynne Borden Mecca and husband John Patrick; his daughter-in-law, Karen Borden; his grandchildren, Connor Michael Borden and wife Bryanna, Ashtyn Leigh Mecca, Laney Marie Mecca, Amelia Lucille Borden, and Landon James Borden; and his brother, Gerald Thomas Borden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Roy and Betty Mae Borden, and his son, John Francis Borden.

Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. His faith, knowledge, craftsmanship, and love will continue through those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to attend Jim's Celebration of Life which will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 3:00 PM from the Marcho, Sheldon, and Kukuchka Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until the time of service on Saturday.