BRAHANEY: James Christopher , 37, of Phoenix, Ariz., died June 4 after a brief illness. Jim was born June 20, 1966, in Pennsylvania and grew up in McIndoes Falls, Vt. A 1984 graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, he was an avid sportsman and athlete and participated in many sports including football, hockey, skiing and ultimate frisbee. Jim was in an auto accident in 1988, which left him a quadriplegic and wheelchair bound. He touched more people's lives and accomplished more than most able-bodied people in his 16 years in a wheelchair. He completed his college courses and graduated from UVM before moving to Arizona in 1992. He was employed by the city of Phoenix, initially with Parks and Recreation, and then as a personal aide to former Mayor Skip Rimsza. His focus was transportation and disability issues. Jim and his companion dog Elam were easily recognizable walking through the streets of Phoenix. They constantly broke down barriers for people unsure how to communicate with a person in a wheelchair. Jim appreciated many things in life, especially music, the Montreal Canadiens and his many friends which he left too soon. Jim is survived by his mother, Agnes Brahaney; and companion dog, Elam. With fond and loving memories we remember the life of James with a memorial service Sunday, June 27, at 1 p.m., at St. Johnsbury Academy. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be sent to Companion Canines at CCI, Southwest Regional Center, 124 Rancho del Oro Drive, Oceanside, CA 92052-4568; or the River of Dreams program with the Parks and Recreation Department, City of Phoenix. Contact Jim Hutchins with any questions at 748-4843 .