Mitchell W. James

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for his life that we announce the unexpected passing of Mitchell “Jim” James, a beloved father, brother, and friend. Mitchell left us on November 1, 2024, at the age of 61.

Mitchell was born in Abilene, TX, on December 29, 1962, to Wayman and Dominga James. Mitchell grew up in San Antonio, TX, alongside his four sisters. After graduating from Sam Houston High School in 1981 he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Air Force. While stationed at Loring Air Force base, he met the love of his life, Lynn. When Loring Air Force base closed, Mitchell chose to leave the service embracing The Northern Maine “Easy” living where he and Lynn would continue to raise their family in Caribou.

Mitchell went on to dedicate himself to night shifts at both United Parcel Service and the University of Maine Presque Isle, each for over 25 years. He was looking forward to his upcoming retirement at the end of the year to pursue his favorite hobbies. A passionate outdoorsman and “world-renowned” trout fisherman, Mitchell found peace in nature and treasured time spent outdoors with his sons. He enjoyed hosting backyard BBQs for family and friends, telling punchy jokes, collecting antiques, keeping his lawn meticulously neat, and crafting handmade lures. His passion for adventure and love for his family defined his life, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mitchell was predeceased by his devoted wife, Lynn (Cyr) James, his loving parents, Wayman and Dominga James, and his sister, Rosanne James Helmick. He is survived by his two cherished sons, Christopher Spring and his wife Lynn of Rollinsford, NH and Nicholas James of San Antonio, TX, three sisters, Beverly J. Black, Sheila M. Starr and husband, Ronnie, and Shawnee L. James-Cervantes and husband, Mike Arciniega, brother in law, Billy Helmick, two sisters-in-law, Natalie Jones and husband, Michael and Nanette Cyr; several special nieces and nephews, who will carry on his legacy of strength and resilience.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the Caribou Inn and Convention Center, with a service beginning at 3 p.m. and time of fellowship and refreshments immediately following.

If anyone would like to share a memory or story, or have one read on their behalf, we encourage you to share the happy times we had with Mitchell. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Mitchell's honor be made to Brian’s Ride Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 163, Caribou, Maine 04736.