Herbert “Jesse” James Jr. died on November 8, 2011, at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 64.Jesse “retired” in 2006 from the Boston and Maine Railroad after 37 years, although he never really retired. He always wanted to stay active and spent the last five years working for Martha’s Vineyard Regional School System. Jesse’s passion was driving his “kids” and other passengers on his bus. Jesse was very active in the community and involved with the Masons, Shriners, Lions Club and others. Toys for Tots had a special place in heart. Jesse was born in Arlington and spent his youth in Sudbury, graduating from Lincoln Sudbury Regional High school in 1964. He spent most of his adulthood in Montague.Jesse leaves behind his loving wife of 43 years, Kathryn (Costello) James, and six children: Herbert III of Montague, Kathryn Zarpus of Virginia Beach, Michelle Hamilton of Turners Falls, Gabrielle James of Boston, Dawne Forrester of New York, and Nicole James of Vermont. He also left behind 17 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters; and many loving extended family and friends.His graveside service will be held on Friday, November 11, at 1 pm in the Oak Grove Cemetery, State Road, Vineyard Haven, officiated by Rev. Robert Hensley and with a Masonic funeral service performed by the Oriental-Martha’s Vineyard Masonic Lodge. Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, Oak Bluffs. Please visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.
