James N Redding

MILFORD - James N. Redding passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on July 26, 2021. He was born November 17, 1945 in Wetumka, Oklahoma, the son of Eugene and Mildred Redding. He bravely battled a rare disease, AL Amyloidosis, until his death.

He graduated from Choctaw High School and participated in many sports. He excelled in track and field, even receiving the outstanding track award his senior year. He would carry on his love for sports, never missing an event that his children and grandchildren participated in. He was always the loudest spectator.

He enlisted in the Air Force and served from 1964-1968, stationed at Dow Air Force Base in Bangor. After the military, he was hired by General Electric in Bangor. He worked as a welder and welding inspector and would retire after 35 years. He was an avid hunter and loved to fish, both ice and open water. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, cross country skiing on the University trails and kayaking in the Penobscot River observing eagles. He spent many hours at the County Road Market solving the world's problems with his friends Frank, Dave, Shawn, Bob and many more.

One of his favorite accomplishments was being one of the founding members of Maine Youth Fish and Game Association, a non profit organization that teaches outdoor skills to kids. He served as president at one point and was an active member on the board of directors from 2000-2012. He was extremely proud of how much the organization grew over the years and of how many kids were enjoying the programs, including his grandchildren. His happiest and proudest times were being with his family and friends, from Oklahoma to Maine.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Brenda (Greenleaf); his daughter, Julie Small and husband Jeff of Milford, their children Meghan and Olivia; his son, Matt Redding and wife Jamie of Milford, their children Madyson and Avery; brother, Kenny and wife Janette of Oklahoma, brother, Lyle and wife Ruby of Oklahoma; a very special brother in-law Steve and wife Lynn of Enfield; sister in-law Carol and husband Jim of Holden; and brother in-law Alan and wife Beverly of Old Town. Many nieces and nephews, all very special to him: Scott, Renee’, Cindy, Jerrett, Jenny, Ben, Chris, Luke and Tony; special Oklahoma nieces: Kristi, Kelli and Kaci; as well as many great nieces and nephews: Aaron, Jordan, Emilee, Griffin, Taylor, Teddy, Kaiden, Amelia and Mason; his Oklahoma great nieces and nephews: Caroline, Carter, Chase, Shane and Sloane. He will also be missed by his long time friend, Buzz Wells, and lifelong friends from Oklahoma, Tom Hammon and Bob Whitaker.

He is predeceased by his parents, Eugene and Mildred, step father, Wayne Starkey, sister, Ruth Curtis, mother in-law, Rose Greenleaf and great niece, Hunter Graves.

A warm and loving thank you to Kindred Care for their support during this difficult time and to all of the wonderful and caring staff at Lafayette Family Cancer Center. At his request, there will be a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Maine Youth Fish and Game Association

PO Box 337

Stillwater, Maine 04489