James R. Young Sr.

ORANGE- James R. Young Sr., 73, of Beacon Street, died peacefully at home on Saturday morning, August 28, 2021 following a long illness, with loved ones at his side.

Born in Greenfield on May 14, 1948, he was the son of James H. and Evelyn M. (Wood) Young and grew up in Orange, graduating from Ralph C. Mahar Regional in 1967.

Following high school and after receiving his draft notice, James enlisted in the United States Army on July 31, 1967 and served his country proudly during the Vietnam War. He received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star among his medals and ribbons for his service and was honorably discharged on July 30, 1970.

On January 24, 1970, James married Cheryl (Soucie) in Orange and they have enjoyed over 51 years of marriage.

James was employed by the L. S. Starrett Co. in Athol for over 40 years and retired in 2014.

An avid baseball player, had he not been drafted James was a prospect for the Philadelphia Phillies. He enjoyed baseball and softball throughout his life and had played on the softball teams for Adell’s and the Royale Café.

James enjoyed many vacations to Maine to visit with family. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing and weekly breakfasts with his life-long friend Larry Perry.

A member of the Orange American Legion Post 172, he also was a member of the former Athol-Orange Elks Lodge #1837.

James leaves his loving wife Cheryl, his children, Michelle Edson and her husband, Michael, of Phoenix, AZ, Nichole Young of North Andover, James Young Jr. and his wife, Gloria, of Orange, and Rebecca Grennell and her husband, David, of Westminster. He was the extremely proud grandfather of Julia, Ally, Dylan, Gavin, Jailene, Preston and Lily. He also leaves a sister, Janice Russell of Orange; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, James was predeceased by sisters, Pearl Smith and Gloria Gunn.

The family is grateful to the DaVita Dialysis of Fitchburg for their dedicated care of James.

FACE MASKS ARE SUGGESTED FOR:

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2021 from 1-3 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

Friends and family are invited to gather immediately following the calling hours at the American Legion 40 Daniel Shays Highway Orange for light refreshments.

Private interment will be in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the American Kidney Foundation-in memory of James Young 11921 Rockville Pike-Suite 300 Rockville MD 208852

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

Guest book and directions online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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