James H. Deschler, 77, of East Rockaway, New York, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. Born in Brooklyn in 1949, James lived a life shaped by creativity and originality. After studying at the Manhattan School of Music, he proudly served as a percussionist in the West Point Army Band. His love of music continued long after his service, inspiring him to create Deschler Percussion, his own mallet-making business.
James later brought his expertise to the newspaper industry, contributing his talents to both the Daily News and The New York Times. His varied experiences and passions made him a truly one‑of‑a‑kind presence.
James was predeceased by his parents, Doris and Robert Deschler Sr., and his brother, Robert Deschler Jr. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his children, Peter (Adrianne) and Christine (Daniel); and his cherished grandchildren, Haley, Alexa, Nicholas, and Mary.
Visitation at Donza Funeral Home
Friday August 14, 2026 5pm – 9pm
Funeral Mass- Saturday August 15-
Saint Raymond RC Church – 11am
263 Atlantic Avenue, East Rockaway NY 11518
Interment-St. Charles Cemetery
2015 Wellwood Avenue, Farmingdale, NY 11735
In lieu of flowers, donations in James’s memory to the Percussive Arts Society are deeply appreciated.
Percussive Arts Society Donation Directions
1. Visit pas.org/donate – (Please put in your email address first.)
2. Select the fund: Percussive Arts Society General Fund or Pick a Scholarship
3. Under the dedication options, select “In Memory of” and type in “James Deschler”.
I am without words. A few months ago, we buried my grandfather - and now my father. It's hard to believe that I will never see him again and never hear his voice. I hope that his next journey is one of peace, gratitude, and joy.
See you on the "other side", Daddy - wherever that is. I love you.
I feel like its not good to leave out the bad, because everyone has bad things about them, but i just wanna say i appreciate that despite his drug addiction and not so great family upbringing , he managed to have his own business, compose music, and overall, i really respect his huge passion for music. I remember when we used to play music together in the basement, grill hamburgers together, play brooklyn monopoly with him, and much more. It was overall great to see him and hang out with him. I hope he's in a better peaceful place and more comfortable now, and i love him❤️❤️❤️
To the entire Deschler Family:
Jimmy was always fun to work with at the New York Times. Great laughs, always helpful, would see a person not on their "A" game, Jimmy was not afraid to say to you, "Sit down, take it easy and I will do some of your work for you." I will also remember coming over to your house to play darts and Peter and I pranked him by placing Peter's darts into the board while Jimmy went to the bathroom. He took it hook, line and sinkier. Peter and I laughed until Jimmy figured we were goofing with him and then he laughed with us.
I saw Jimmy a couple of years back at the 24 hour bagel deli in Oceanside, he was sitting and enjoying his meal. I came out of the store and we talked for a short time and he treated me as if we were still working together. He did not make me feel as if he is retired and he did not wish to talk to me anymore now that he was retired. Always down to Earth guy. I will miss him and his drum sticks at work.
Jimmy, may you rest in peace and may God have a seat for you in his orchestra playing more than just the drums.
Phil Treglia Sr.