James Frank Brandow, 92 of Pleasant Valley, died peacefully at his residence on January 8, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Poughkeepsie, NY on March 12, 1933, he was the son of James W. and Elsie Burmeister Brandow. He attended Poughkeepsie High School.
Widely known as "Buddy" he was a gifted left-handed pitcher and played on the varsity Poughkeepsie High School baseball team since his freshman year. In 1956, he received a trophy from the Poughkeepsie Twilight League for most valuable pitcher. Buddy was inducted into the Dutchess County Baseball Association Hall of Fame in 1990. Buddy received a letter from the New York Yankees to be invited to play in their minor league program. However, he was drafted by the US Army and was extremely proud to serve his country.

In 1958, he married Judy Conklin and together they had 4 children:  James W. Brandow (Christine), Darlene Woodrow (Pete), Brian Brandow (Angela) and Darryl Brandow (Margaret). In addition to his wife and children he leaves behind his 7 grandchildren, James Brandow, Katie Salach, Chloe Woodrow, Sabrina Brandow, Michael Brandow, Alec Brandow and Pierce Brandow; 3 great grandchildren, Jackson Brandow, Carson Brandow and Bennett Salach. Also surviving is his twin sister, Elsie Eignor and several nieces and nephews. Buddy is predeceased by his sisters, Mary Kilhmire, Jenny Kilhmire and Ruth Smith.

He played on the Interstate Baseball League of Amenia team and was one of the best pitchers in the entire league. Buddy was a highly respected builder throughout Dutchess County for many years. His hobbies include hunting, fishing and was an avid train collector.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16 from 5-8 pm at Allen Funeral Home, 1605 Main St., Pleasant Valley. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, January 17 at 11 am from the Pleasant Valley Presbyterian Church, 1576 Main St., Pleasant Valley. Interment will follow in Pleasant Valley Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made in Buddy's memory either to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Pleasant Valley Presbyterian Church.