Francis Mitchell James, MD

Francis Mitchell James MD, of Swansea, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on October 27, 2022 surrounded by his beloved wife Letitia of 61 years and loving family. Francis was first and foremost a gentleman. Seldom without a jacket and tie and a good book at the ready, he was devoted to his family, his patients, and his beloved sloop “Deliverance”.

Born in Newport, RI on September 17, 1929, Francis was the only child of Frank James and Helen (Maloney) James. He grew up in Providence, RI graduating from LaSalle Academy in 1947 and Providence College in 1951.

A caring, deeply devoted physician, he felt privileged to practice medicine. He graduated from New York Medical College in 1958, followed by an internship at Rhode Island Hospital and Women and Infants Hospital. He proudly served two years in the Navy as a physician on the USS Jason in Japan and then in Coronado. For nearly 40 years, Francis dedicated his professional life to his private practice in Obstetrics & Gynecology and believed that taking the time to establish a relationship with each patient was essential to addressing their problems. He was honored to serve as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President and then President at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, MA followed by 12 years as a Trustee. In addition, Francis was a delegate to the Massachusetts Medical Society and served on the nomination committee.

Francis married the love of his life; Letitia (Meinhold) James on December 27, 1961 and there began the romance of a lifetime. They were happiest sailing across Buzzards Bay on “Deliverance” with dinghy “Salvation” in tow. No matter the weather, with Francis at the helm and Tish as navigator, off they went to Cuttyhunk, Vineyard Haven, Nantucket and up the coast of Maine. The often-heard “Come Aboard!” meant sharing stories, singing sea shanties, cocktail hour and lots of laughter. A long-term member of the New Bedford Yacht Club in South Dartmouth, MA, he cherished time with family and friends on the NBYC cruises and proudly held the title of Fleet Surgeon. He loved all kinds of books, was a voracious reader and was an active member of two book clubs. Equally as important was his love of Opera at the Met, The Boston Ballet and Trinity Theater - always with his bride by his side.

Francis was predeceased by his parents and his beautiful daughter, Sarah James Garrett. He leaves behind his daughter, Susan James Geremia, her husband Louis Geremia, of Dover, MA, grandchildren, Eliza, Catherine, and Christopher Geremia, Son-in-law Dave Garrett (Sandy), grandchild Nathaniel Garrett and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to offer their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to his wonderful caregivers for their love, support, and kindness.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 3, 2022 from 9:30 - 10:30 AM in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Rose E. Sullivan, 866 County Street, Somerset followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM in St Thomas More Church, 386 Luther Ave, Somerset. Relatives and friends are invited. Burial will be private. If desired, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Doctors without Borders (Doctorswithoutborders.org) For tributes and directions, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com