James Shaut

James Michael Shaut of Bath, NY died March 16, 2026 at U of R Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY of a cerebral herniation.

He is survived by his sisters: Fawn Arnold-Henck (Colin) and Stefani Welch-Topsey; two nephews and one niece; two uncles and one aunt; multiple cousins; and his mother, Teresa Shaut. He was pre-deceased by his father, Kevin Yawger.

James was born December 30, 1994 with multiple congenital anomalies, some of which were: Dandy Walker Syndrome, severe facial clefting, severe obstructive hydrocephalus, Chiari Malformation II, Toni Fanconi Syndrome, autism, and legal blindness. He was not expected to walk, talk, or live past 18 months. He was a “walking miracle”, according to two neurologists, and lived to be 31 years old. James was cared for his entire life by his loving and devoted mother.

James attended Early Intervention classes and School Age classes through BOCES of Steuben County, NY. He also graduated from New York State School for the Blind, Batavia, NY in 2016, and attended ARC-AS Programs until 2025.

James’ laugh and sense of humor will always be remembered by those who met him and came to know him. He was an organ donor and now lives on through several recipients. Donations in James’ memory may be made to Finger Lakes Donor Recovery Network, 30 Corporate Woods Suite 220, Rochester, NY 14623 www.passlifeon.org

In lieu of a funeral, a Celebration of Life gathering will take place at his country home on July 5, 2026 from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m., open house style. (More information will be shared by email and on social media.)