James A. Keenan

FREEPORT – James A. Keenan, known affectionately as “Jim”, passed away peacefully on the morning of Feb. 20, 2025.

Born on April 14, 1937, in Brewer, James spent the majority of his life in his beloved state, settling in Freeport after raising his family and living for 53 years in Farmingdale. A kindhearted man, Jim always tried to make the world around him a better place.

As a longtime teacher in Gardiner, Jim dedicated his professional life to the students in his classes, working to educate young minds and set a positive example with his enthusiasm and work ethic. He was an educator in the classroom and also a lifelong learner in his personal life. He loved exploring places of historical significance in Maine and reading biographies and non-fiction of noted Mainers.

Jim’s energies extended beyond his profession; he found joy in yard work, camping, home improvement projects and family gatherings. His 1950 Chevy Deluxe was a tangible reflection of his admiration for things that stood the test of time, much like his own steadfast character. He proudly participated in the Freeport Memorial Day and 4th of July parades, driving the Chevy and accompanied by his dear companion, Norma Patterson.

Jim was actively dedicated to Veteran efforts; he was involved in the Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard and the Smith Wiley American Legion Post #4. His commitment to honoring veterans through Wreaths Across America was a testament to his unwavering thankfulness to those who served.

Jim joins those who have gone before him, including his cherished wife, Julia; his parents Andrew and Irene (Arsenault) Keenan; siblings Bob and wife Marcia, Peggy and husband Joe, Ron, sister-in-law, Terry (wife of Ernie), and brother-in-law, Dolor (husband of Jan); many treasured high school and collegiate classmates, and respected colleagues, friends and neighbors. Jim created relationships that lasted, and he loved and appreciated them all.

James’ family will carry his legacy forward with grateful hearts; his sister, Janice and brother, Ernie (wife Diane) will make sure all the family memories are shared. His loving daughters Sandra Barry (husband Jerry) of Freeport and Nancy Barron (husband Bill) of South Gardiner owe much to their parents’ example. They are thankful for the values their Mum and Dad instilled in them – hard work, honesty, integrity and humor. Jim would want you to know about his grandchildren, Willa Barron of Augusta, a middle school educator at Gardiner Regional Junior High, Samantha Barry of Portland, a Tufts Maine Track 3rd year medical student, Dallas Barron of South Gardiner, an Art major at Hampshire College, and Maggie Barron of South Gardiner, a Senior English major at Mount Holyoke. They all shared a special bond with their Gramp. Jim will be greatly missed by his family, who he always put first.

Visitation for James will be held on Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. A gathering and celebration of Jim’s life will follow at 1 p.m. at the Smith-Wiley American Legion Post, 46 Griffin St., Gardiner.

Interment with military honors will be held on Monday, April 14 at 2 p.m. at the Maine Veterans Cemetery.

In memory of James, we invite you to share your stories, photos, and cherished memories on his memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com .

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting one of the following:

(checks to)

Smith-Wiley American Legion Post 4

attn. Lisa Helm, Finance Officer

46 Griffin St.

Gardiner, ME 04345;

(checks to)

Wreaths Across America:

to ensure funds are applied to efforts in Gardiner, Maine please include on the memo the Group ID: ME0087 and Location Code: MEOGCG.

For more information, please email Fred Thompson at [email protected]