Arthur James

Newport, RI - Arthur Curt Curtiss James, passed away at home with family on December 30, 2008. He was the husband of the late Katherine Lawton James. Born in Newport, RI, on August 6, 1922, he was the last of seven sons of Thomas and Florence Hurl James.Curtiss was born and raised on the Point and attended De la Salle Academy where he played on many of their teams of which several won city and state championships. He was instrumental in creating a basketball court at Storer Park which was featured in Sports Illustrated. He also played in the Sun Set League for many years, most notably as a pitcher.Curtiss served in the US Army during WWII and was stationed in the Pacific. He worked at Walsh Brothers for many years before becoming a letter carrier with the US Postal Service. After 28 years of service, he retired in 1987 and continued to work on several woodworking projects and watching his beloved red sox. He was a member of the Point Association. He leaves behind two daughters, Catherine Phillips of Newport, RI and Paula Ruggeri of Bristol, RI; three grandchildren, Jade K. Phillips of Newport, RI and Whitney and Stacey Ruggeri, both of Bristol, RI; two great grandchildren, Owen S. Sibya and Riley M. Young, as well as his niece, Jean Kerr of Newport, RI and several great nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2008 at 6 pm in the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2008 from 4-6 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Christian Brothers, 673 Ocean Road, Narragansett, RI 02882.