James E. “Skip” Neales III

PORTLAND – James E. “Skip” Neales III, 86, passed away on Sunday May 18, 2025, at Sedgewood Nursing Home in Falmouth.

He was born in Portland on Sept. 17, 1938, to James E. Neales, Jr. and Ellen (Hight) Neales. He grew up in Portland and attended local schools. At the age of 17 he joined the Maine Army National Guard and served honorably for three years. In January 1964 he married Nancy L. Chase. James was a loyal employee at Day’s Jewelry store for 55 years.

James was predeceased by his wife, Nancy; and oldest son, James E. Neales IV.

James is survived by his sons Harold Neales and Kevin Neales, daughter, Nancy Neales; four granddaughters, Stephanie Nichols, Rachel Lira, Allison Neales, and Alicia Adams; great-grandson, Lincoln Gee, and great-granddaughter, Matilda James Lira.

His absolute passion in life was the sport of boxing. James began boxing while serving in the Maine Army National Guard and continued after he was discharged. He turned to coaching after his short career in the ring and found this to be his true calling. He coached the Sweet Science of Boxing to hundreds of youths in the Portland area. The joy he received from passing on his knowledge of boxing to young fighters was immeasurable. He wanted nothing more for every fighter he trained to be successful and reap the benefits of a solid work ethic. James was a fixture at the Portland Boxing Club for nearly 35 years and was loved by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held for James on June 8 at Dolby, Blais, and Segee in Westbrook from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visiting hours will be from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and a short service will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

To express condolences or to participate in James’s online tribute, please visit http://www.dolbyblaissegee.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Portland Boxing Club via their website at http://www.portlandboxingclub.org.