James B. Bartlett, of York, Maine, passed away January 8, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Susan M. Christmas.
Jim was born in Saugus, MA and was a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, earning a degree in education. For many years, Jim was an influential and inspiring teacher in the Arlington Public Schools where he also served as President of the teacher’s union. Jim later earned a law degree from Suffolk University and, after moving to York, opened his own law firm, James B. Bartlett, P.A. In more recent years, he worked for the York law firm of Clark and Howell.
Service to community was always a significant part of Jim’s life. After college, he served in the National Guard. He was elected to the York Board of Selectmen, serving as chairman twice, and was a valued member of the board of directors for Old York Historical Society. In addition, he was a dedicated leader of the Maine chapter of the Make a Wish Foundation and the committee to secure funding to build the Coastal Ridge Elementary School, was one of the founders of the Casinos NO campaign, and was chairman of the Long Sands Bathhouse building committee. One of Jim’s most valued memberships was that of York Rotary Club, serving as President and as the Rotary Foundation Chairman. He was most happy contributing to projects that benefited those in need, but also thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie of those involved with these groups.
The most important part of Jim’s life was the role he played in the lives of his family and friends. He and Susan enjoyed the friendship of their siblings, their brothers and sisters in law, and many nieces and nephews. He officiated the weddings of several family members, was an enthusiastic presence at school sporting events, and enjoyed countless hours on the golf course. Jim also cherished the many trips he and Susan made to visit with special lifelong friends.
He is also survived by his siblings John and Rosalind Bartlett of Billerica, MA; Richard and Debra Bartlett of Mahtomedi, MN; Stephen and Nett Bartlett of Raleigh, NC; Patricia Kelleher from Dennis, MA; Thomas Bartlett of Haverhill, MA; Caroline and Robert Donovan of Yarmouth Port, MA; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank York Hospital Hospice. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in Jim’s name to the Make a Wish Foundation of Maine. Condolences for the family can be sent to Christmas.Susan@icloud.com. https://wish.org/maine
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