Up With the Sun. Gone With the Wind. He's off to Fire Lake.
James Leroy Babb, beloved father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend, passed away on April 1, 2026, at the age of 86 in Bath, Maine.
Jim was a man who believed in life's simple truths-kindness, loyalty, and staying true to who you are. He didn't chase riches or status, but instead valued love, honesty, and the people closest to him. He lived with a quiet wisdom: to be something you love and understand.
Jim was born on September 5, 1939, in Richmond, Maine, to Miriam and William Babb. He graduated from Richmond High School in 1958, earning the titles of Most Musical, Best Dancer, and-fittingly-the Class Flirt! His love of music, his smooth dance moves, and his natural charm even earned him a guest appearance on the popular Dave Astor Show with his dance partner, Janice. That same year, he took the lead role of Jimmie Washburn in the senior play "The Nervous Wreck," a performance those who knew him would say suited him perfectly.
After high school, Jim headed west to Wyoming with friends, working as a construction laborer building bridges before being drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War era. He was honorably discharged in 1969 after serving in the reserves, earning distinctions as Marksman, Expert, and Sharpshooter with the rifle.
In 1968, he married Pamela Nile, and together-both in partnership and, in life's own way, apart-they raised their two greatest treasures, Ron and Brooke.
Jim dedicated nearly 40 years to the iconic Richmond shoe factory known over time as Etonic, Eaton Shoe, and later Spaulding Shoe. He was widely respected by his coworkers— especially "the ladies," who became some of his dearest friends-as the go-to expert for repairing any sewing machine. In time, he became the "last man standing," the sole remaining employee when Spaulding Shoe closed its doors in 1999. He later worked for the Town of Richmond maintaining building operations until 2002. Even in retirement, Jim couldn't stay away from what he loved, and he went on to work at North Country Harley in Augusta.
A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Jim served as Road Captain for the Exiles Motorcycle Club-a brotherhood that was truly family. He was first a member of the Rumford (Mexico) chapter and later a founding member of the Pittston chapter, which began right at his home, Jim helped build not only a club, but lifelong bonds. He was also proudly known by his Exile brothers as the founder-and King-of the Exile Annual Pig Roast, with Ron by his side helping build the very first pig roasters. EFFE.
Jim found joy in dancing, gardening, mowing the lawn, and riding motorcycles-but his favorite place was the garage, spending time alongside his son. He was rarely without a Doberman by his side and a Schaefer in his hand. Whether he was at the Exiles clubhouse for weekly gatherings or stopping in to visit lifelong friends John and Melissa Vear (Douglass) while Heidi (his last Doberman) made herself at home, Jim's days were rooted in connection and simple pleasures. For years, he could be counted on along his familiar daily route to the post office or seen proudly mowing his lawn —a steady presence, living life his way.
Jim will be remembered for his warmth, sense of humor, generosity, and the way he made people feel. He was always kind, always genuine, and always unapologetically himself. He touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion. As his favorite musician once sang, "Sometimes at night, I see their faces, I feel the traces they've left on my soul. And those are the memories that make me a wealthy soul."
He is survived by his steadfast partner and best friend through life, his son Ron and wife Amy; his daughter Brooke Davis and husband Russell; his grandchildren Tyson and wife Ashley of Whitefield, Hilary of Bowdoinham, and Vincent Davis of Bowdoinham; and his great-grandchildren Scarlett, Gemma, and Jace of Whitefield. He is also survived by his sister Cheryl Temple and husband Raymond of Topsham; his niece Debra Temple of Bowdoinham; his nephew Lane Babb of Virginia; along with his extended Exiles family and countless friends-too many to name, but never forgotten.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Roger and Ronald "Ozzy" Babb; and his special uncle, Nathan Huntington.
A Celebration of Life will be held on the 87th anniversary of his birth-September 5, 2026, at 2:00 in the afternoon—at the place he cherished most: home, where he lived with his son Ron and daughter-in-law Amy on River Road in Bowdoinham.
Arrangements are in the care of Kincer Funeral Home, 130 Pleasant Street, Richmond, Maine. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared on their Facebook. In lieu of flowers, please support your local Exiles in Jim's memory -910 Wiscasset Road, Pittston, Maine 04345.
In honoring Jim's memory, we are reminded to drive fast, take chances, and live fully-because, as he knew well and often told us, none of us are getting out of here alive.