James "Jim" Howard, 63, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025, at his home in Meddybemps. Born September 5, 1961, in Lubec, Maine, to James and Rita (Kilby) Howard, Jim was a beacon of strength and resilience for his family and community. A proud graduate of Shead High School, Class of 1980, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a welder, a career that spanned over 16 years. Upon retirement, he returned to his beloved Maine, where he spent the rest of his days creating, exploring, and cherishing the simple pleasures of life. Jim was a gifted artisan, his hands capable of crafting intricate beauty from the simplest of materials. His love for woodworking was only surpassed by his adoration for his family and the outdoors. His many beagles, wintering in Orlando, Florida, hunting, and fishing were among his favorite pastimes. A devoted member of the Woodland Christian Fellowship, Jim's faith was a cornerstone of his life. His love for his family was immense, the joy and pride he found in his grandchildren were unparalleled. Jim leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an appreciation for the beauty of life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Lynn (Pierce) Howard; daughters, Heather Hamilton and her husband Darrin of Baileyville, and Jennifer Thornton and her husband Josh of Calais; grandchildren, Tova Hamilton, Benjamin Goode, Kaylin Hamilton, Sadye Cottrell, and Brayden Hamilton; sister Mary Sawlivich of MA; brothers, Scott Howard and his wife Donna of NH, and Carroll Howard and his wife Susan of NH; brother-in-law Dave Pierce and family of FL; nephews, Daniel and Mitchell Sawlivich, and Jeffrey Jardine; dear friend Jody Scott of Baileyville; Susan Kronillis and her family, who was like a daughter to Jim; and his loyal beagle Marshall. Jim was predeceased by his parents, James and Rita Howard, brothers-in-law, Wayne Sawlivich and Bruce Pierce, and his beagle Max. A special note of gratitude goes to Melanie Howard, Jim's nurse and dear friend, for her exceptional care and support. A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the Second Baptist Church, 21 Church St., Calais. Burial will be held in the spring at Dennysville Cemetery. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services.