James A. Clarkson Jr.

James A. Clarkson of Middletown, RI, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 94. He will be remembered for his resilience, tireless work ethic, and unwavering loyalty.

James "Jim" was born in Fall River, Massachusetts, on December 24, 1931, to the late James A. Clarkson Sr. and Victoria (Campion) Clarkson. He was the beloved brother of the late Joseph Clarkson and Dorothy Clarkson. Jim shared 67 years of marriage with his loving wife, the late Loretta (Brousseau) Clarkson, and was predeceased by his eldest daughter, Joanne St. Pierre.

James was a devoted father to six children and is survived by his son, Stephen St. Pierre and his wife Mavis of Anderson, South Carolina; his daughter, Linda James and her husband Leland of Yorktown, Virginia; his daughter, Cheryl Pare of Freetown, Massachusetts; his son, James W. Clarkson and his wife Christine of Middletown, RI; and his daughter, Christine Long of Portsmouth, RI. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a host of friends and neighbors who will cherish his memory.

James graduated from B.M.C. Durfee High School in Fall River in 1949. During his school years, he demonstrated a strong work ethic by hitchhiking to Portsmouth, RI, to work on a potato farm and help support his family. Following graduation, James enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving as a Staff Sergeant and Airman during the Korean War. His service was recognized with the Korean Service Medal, United States Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and a Commendation Ribbon. He also held the Handball Champion title during his time in the Air Force, a true testament to his dedication, character, and patriotic spirit.

After completing his military service, James began his professional career as a draftsman, quickly distinguishing himself with his talent and unwavering work ethic. He advanced to the engineering division at the Naval Underwater Systems Center at Newport Naval Base, where he spent 30 years engaged in highly specialized work designing torpedoes, making significant contributions to the nation's defense. Following his retirement from civil service, James continued to share his expertise as a consultant with the engineering team at MacLaughlin Research Company, spending an additional six years working on new torpedo designs.

James was a true "jack-of-all-trades," effortlessly tackling any household project, big or small, and always ready to lend a hand under the hood of a car. He was the go-to person for family and friends alike, embodying dignity and determination in everything he did.

James had many passions, including music, playing the trumpet, fishing, boating, golfing, walking, caring for his dogs, and eating rock crabs with a cold Narragansett beer. While he excelled in many sports, his greatest passion was playing competitive softball. Playing third base for the NUWC and Newport softball leagues, he earned the MVP award for two consecutive seasons for his exceptional batting average. He was frequently commended for his speed and his "hot glove" in the infield.

Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that James left an unforgettable mark on all who were fortunate to know him. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished in our hearts.

A private service for family will be held on June 20, 2026, at St. Columba Cemetery.