SOUTH THOMASTON — James “Jim” L. Stone, Jr. passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born in Lewiston on May 4, 1960, Jim was the youngest of four children of James and Anita (Raymond) Stone. His life was truly a story—one that he lived and told in his own unique way. With a big personality and an even bigger heart, Jim’s journey was filled with unforgettable experiences and friendships that became lifelong bonds. He took great pride in his roots in Lewiston and cherished his time in California, embracing the full spectrum of his past—both the triumphs and the struggles—turning them into stories that inspired and entertained everyone around him.

A fantastic cook, Jim found joy in the kitchen and behind the grill, whether he was tailgating at a Patriots game or hosting gatherings at his beloved camp on Damariscotta Lake. His generous spirit and love of good food brought people together, creating lasting memories over meals prepared with care.

Jim met his battle with cancer with unwavering determination, mirroring the resilience that defined his life. With every challenge, he reassured those around him, saying, “I am going to be OK; we just have a little more work to do.”

Professionally, Jim dedicated many years to IFF (formerly FMC, Dupont) and spent summers lobstering in Rockland Harbor, a role he embraced with pride. He especially loved being captain on the water and passing on this experience to his son Daniel.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, James L. Stone, Sr. and Anita (Raymond) Stone, as well as his dear friend and father-in-law, Gary Kenney.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 23 years, Sherry Stone of South Thomaston; his children, Tasha York and her partner Mark Bradford of Fairfield, and Daniel Stone and his partner Taylor Wardwell of South Thomaston; siblings Sandy Nichols (Jerry) of Lewiston, Richard Stone (Rose) of Auburn, and Debra Harris (Mike) of Yarmouth; his seven cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth, Addalyn, Kamden, Charlotte, Macy, Leighton, and Lyla; 12 nieces and nephews; his mother-in-law, Joanne “Cookie” Kenney of Rockland; and his extended family, including his wife’s father, Neil (Cheryl) Philbrook of Florida, brother Scott (Michelle) Philbrook of Windham; his former wife Tracy Lewis and the McGonagle family—Bill, Martha, John (Irene), Bill (Karen), and Kelly (Stef) Keenan.

The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the incredible team of doctors, nurses, and caregivers at New England Cancer Specialists, Spectrum Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, and Beacon Hospice, whose unwavering support and compassionate care guided Jim through his battle with cancer. Your dedication and kindness provided comfort in the most difficult moments, and we are forever grateful.

Visitation will be held Monday, May 12, at 4 p.m., at Burpee Carpenter Hutchins, 110 Limerock St, Rockland. A Mass of Chirstian Burial will be held Tuesday, May 13, at 11 a.m., at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, followed by a Celebration of Life from 1 - 4 p.m., at the Rockland Golf Club.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor Jim’s legacy by making a donation to one of the organizations close to his heart: St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) or The Dempsey Center (dempseycenter.org). Both provide invaluable support to those facing illness.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Burpee Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.