Timothy Richard James

Portland – Timothy Richard James, 23, died Wednesday September 8, 2010.

Tim grew up as a child who endeared himself to people through his charismatic smile, strong sense of freedom and individuality, tendency toward mischief, and “attitude” with a sweet vulnerability. He experienced a different life than most children as he grew up in Windham; at times he lived with his 2 older half-siblings and other times as an only child. His mother, Jean James of Fort Kent, was not with him after he completed the fourth grade when she separated from his father, Richard James. Father and son continued to reside in Windham after that. He was fiercely loyal to “Rick” and remained so until his father’s death on March 6, 2006; both had found spirituality with God and camaraderie with one another.

When Rick’s illnesses made it difficult for him to care for Tim, Ann and John Levesque became Tim’s legal guardians in August of 2004; he remained an integral and much loved part of their family for the six years prior to his death.

Tim excelled in athletics. He was involved from the beginning with Windham Youth Football and grew to love the sport; he also played basketball and baseball. Tim was a good friend to many and sought out families that loved, embraced, and appreciated him during those middle school years. He forged strong friendships and extended himself to a vast number of acquaintances, all the while demonstrating sensitivity, caring and generosity to those in need. His sense of humor and “take on life” will be well remembered! In June 2007 he received his high school diploma from the Gorham High School Adult Ed Program.

Tim developed and leaves many strong friendships behind as he passes on. Many Windham coaches, teachers, and friends joined Rick in fathering and role modeling for him. Many Windham women had a hand in mothering him who was always affectionately appreciative. He is missed by his immediate family as well as his extended family of friends and the Windham Community that raised him. He has taught many lessons regarding the importance of family, the richness of friendship, and the ability of the spirit to rise above adversity. His life was a short one, perhaps of his own choosing; but like the autumn leaves that turn colors before the onset of Fall, he grew old and passed on too soon. We appreciate the beauty and memory of his days with us.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, September 25 at 11:00AM at St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, 40 Windham Center Road in Windham. Tim will be buried along with his father Rick in the St. Ann Memorial Garden following the memorial service. A reception will be held directly afterwards at Windham Hill United Church of Christ, 140 Windham Center Road, Windham. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers contributions can be made in Tim’s memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, P. O. Box 4527 New York, NY or to St. Ann’s Episcopal Memorial Fund, or to a charitable organization of the donor’s choosing.

Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign Tim’s guestbook.

Arrangements are being handled by the Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home 199 Woodford St. Portland.