Loving partner of Stan Trosky, James is the devoted son of Nancy Hoffman and the late James J.  Dear brother of Deborah A. Ashburn; also survived by his nieces Nancy Albano, Maria C. Rodriguez, and his nephew James Michael Rodriguez.  Relatives and friends are invited to gather Thursday 10:00 AM, Burns Funeral Home, 9708 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, followed by Words of Remembrance 11:00 AM.  In lieu of flowers, contributions to Alliance Cancer Center, 3998 Red Lion Rd. # 130, Philadelphia, PA 19114 in his memory would be appreciated.