Celebration of Paul's Life
Interment
Obituary of Paul Martin James
It is with sadness the James’s mark the passing of Paul Martin James, husband of the late Margaret “Peggy” (O’Connor) James, on Wednesday morning, November 10, 2021, in his home of 30 years. Born in Saint John on June 21, 1944, he was a son of the late John “Jack” W. James and Mary Ellen “Girlie” (Hanley) James.
The North End, St. Peter’s Church and ballfield, the children of the neighbourhood, and the vibrant shops around the block from his family home on Clarendon St. made the backdrop for a near idyllic childhood. Being handed the nickname “Jesse” as a compliment to his speed as a ball
player, a generation knew him as only that. So much ball was played in fact, that he and most of his team-mates never learned to swim in the summer, as they never left the field.
Being well read and a history enthusiast, meeting and falling in love with a librarian fit. “Peggy and Paul” were both teachers, coaches, and loving parents. His sons, Francis and Emlyn, and his family and friends spread from Jacksonville, Florida to Vancouver Island will miss him dearly. Inhis own words written for this departed “Peg”, “To love always, and to never forget”.
Paul is survived by his sons, Emlyn James (Angela) of Jacksonville, FL and Francis James (Keltie Darrah) of Saint John; grandsons: JohnMarko, Paris, and Spyro; and brother, Billy James (Brenda).
Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424). An outdoor public service will be held at St. Peter’s Ballfield, 50 Clarendon St. at 2 pm, Friday Nov 19, 2021, with a burial at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery to follow. All are welcome. A reception at The Ritchie Tap Room (upstairs O’Leary’s Pub) will follow from 6 to 8 pm.
Donations of remembrance are welcomed by Divine Mercy Catholic School and Community Food Basket of Saint John Inc. Please place online condolences and stories at www.BrenansFH.com
