Jim left us on an outgoing tide just before sunset on June 5, 2026, overlooking the marsh, with his family at his side. Jim lived a life full of grit and understanding for the ordinary man. He truly believed his greatest accomplishment in life was his bountiful family.

His late wives Joan L. Fox and Gayle S. Fox. His children: Leslie Burke, Sharon Risley, William Jeffrey Croft, Sarah Whalen, Anne Lund, Louise K. Fox, Julia Myers, and John Fox, along with a terrific group of sons- and daughters-in-law. His grandchildren: Erin, Andrew, Peyton, Barrett, Taylor, Sam, Zoë, Hans, Hannah, James, Harrison, Nels, Skye, Will, Charlie, Mollie, and Clifton, as well as 15 great-grandchildren and brothers Bill Fox and Winslow Randolph.

Jim taught us the gift of time, how to place family and friends first, and to tie a square knot. Jim possessed the strength of a mule, though treated all with generosity and deep kindness. He was loyal to the core. A master storyteller and craftsman, Jim built his family home and led by example in how to shape a family with honesty, wit, intellectual curiosity, and love. We are forever grateful.

Jim was a committed and longtime volunteer in his community both on and off the water. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Meals on Wheels of Marshfield (check payable to “Marshfield Council on Aging” 230 Webster St Marshfield, MA 02050) or Mystic Seaport Museum, online at: https://give.mysticseaport.org/annual

A celebration of life will be held on a future date.