BELFAST — James Edward Lovejoy, 86, passed away Jan. 21, 2015, at The Sussman House in Rockport. He was born June 26, 1928, in Lynn Mass., and attended Saugus High School.

He entered MaryKnoll Seminary in 1946. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1956. He received two master’s degrees and later a doctorate in ecumenical studies and religious freedom. The majority of his time as an active priest was spent as a chaplain at two universities in Wisconsin.

James left the active ministry in 1971 and married Jacquelyn Kresse. He worked for the Department of Defense and the Department of The Navy for 13 years in race relations and equal employment opportunities. In 1984 Jim and his family moved to Belfast and operated a bed and breakfast for the next 12 years. While living in Belfast he served on the Belfast City Council, the Chamber of Commerce and State Development, tourism and local committees. He also organized the Waldo County Chamber of Commerce.

In 2002 he returned to ministry and assisted in more than 100 marriages, baptisms and religious counseling until retiring in 2014.

Jim will be remembered as a gentle man who was passionate in his involvement in causes and his care for people. He had a strong impact on many people throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Fred Lovejoy and Marie Donahoe Lovejoy; and his two brothers, George and Richard. He is survived by his wife, Jacquelyn; his children, Jennifer, Jon and Jeff and their spouses, Vince, Meg and Johanna; and seven grandchildren, Olivia, Jonah, Jack, Pete, Kate, Isabella and Garrett.

A viewing and visitation will be held Sunday Jan. 25 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast. A short prayer service will be held at 4:30 p.m.