James W. Read, 84, formally ofBowdoinham, passed peacefully Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, at the Maine Veterans Home inAugustawith family by his side.

He was the son of Walter F. Read and Hattie M. Temple Read. James was born on June 4, 1929, inBowdoinhamwhere he lived all his life.

He served his country in the Army stationed i

nIcelandduring the Korean Conflict.

James married his devoted wife Helen Grey on June 3, 1951. They were married 63 years.

Jim worked for many years at Main Street Garage inBowdoinhamand Dodge Chevrolet in Bath. He then opened his own business Reads Auto & Towing on theFisher Road inBowdoinhamwhich he operated until his retirement.

He was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Richmond, the American Legion Post #132 Richmond, Topsham Fair Association and Merrymeeting Grange for 70 years holding master as well as other officer positions. He also was a member of the Knights of Pythias,Jaycees,Bowdoinhamvolunteer fire department historical society, Chair of theBowdoinhamBBQ committee, and president of the PTC.

Jim started and coached theBowdoinhamLittle League and Babe Ruth.

Jim enjoyed his family, friends and meeting people, he also enjoyed going to flea markets, yard sales and for rides with his wife. He was always willing to help anyone who needed it. He especially enjoyed morning coffee with friends at theTown Landing inBowdoinham. Jim was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Helen Coskery, Frances Benner, Margaret Allen, his brother John Read, and a grandson Jason Belanger.

He is survived by his wife Helen, son and daughter-inlaw Reginald and Gail Read of Phippsburg, daughter Jamie Read ofFlorida, daughter Linda England and partner Doug Smith ofNorth Carolina, and son Jay Read ofDelaware, also 8 grandchildren, 8 greatgrandchildren, 4 sister-inlaws and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the wonderful care of the staff at the Maine Veterans Home inAugusta.

There will be a service and celebration of life in the spring.

If you wish, donations in his memory may be made to the Church of the Nazarene 91 Alexander Reed Road, Richmond, ME 04357 or the Merrymeeting Grange,176 Main Road, Phippsburg, ME04562.