SARASOTA, Fla. — James W. Sylvester passed away Sept. 24, 2015, in Sarasota, Fla.. He was born in Camden on July 25, 1936.

He was predeceased his by parents, Clifford and Doris Sylvester; his sisters, Joyce Wood and Linda Peatie. Surviving are his nieces, Lori Yoder, Sherrie Wacha and Jennifer Peatie; his nephew, Robert Peatie; his great-nieces, Nichole Miller (Keith), Stephanie Klabel (Scott), Becky Satterly (Nicholas), Megan Yoder, Jennifer Wacha and Kaylee Thompson, and his great-nephews Scott Wacha (Angela) and Jordon Henderson.

Jim was a devoted son, brother and uncle and will be dearly missed. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from Husson University and also obtained a master's degree from the University of Maine. He retired from Concord-Carlisle High School in Concord, Mass., fter many years of dedicated service. After retiring and moving to Sarasota, Fla., he was a substitute teacher for 14 years.

Jim was a long established fan of the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins. He had a passion for the beach in both Camden and Sarasota. Some of his favorite past times were spending time with family, sitting and talking with longtime friends at the public landing in Camden and also sitting in the sun with friends at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota. He enjoyed traveling aboard and visited almost all 50 states.

In Jim's later life, he enjoyed playing bingo and Jeopardy, which he often won. He was a passionate member of the Democratic Party and voted in the important elections up until his death.

A private graveside service will be held Saturday, Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Camden. A memorial service will be announced in the summer of 2016.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to Tidewell Hospice House, 5957 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home.