James S. Thorne

PORTLAND – James S. Thorne, 95, died on Aug. 6, 2025 at home surrounded by family.

He was a gregarious, kind and compassionate man who made friends wherever he roamed, whether volunteering, fishing a river, sitting on the porch of the family camp at Moosehead Lake or on a bench at his condo association where he was fondly known as the Mayor of Ricker Park.

Jim was born to James H. and Mary E. Thorne in Madison on Jan. 13, 1930. A graduate of Madison High School, 1943, University of Maine, 1953 and Boston University of Law, 1958. He was a U.S. Army veteran.

Jim was active in numerous environmental organizations and an avid outdoorsman. His special interests were the arts, reading and humor.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Priscilla Bartlett Thorne of 58 years.

He is survived by three children, Jim B. Thorne (Darcie), Christine T. Slader (Christian) and Stuart L. Thorne (Christine). He was “Pop” to six grandchildren, Alex (Teal), Wilson, Jane (Andy), Adam (Jess), Callie and Esme; nine great-grandchildren, Colten, Aurora, Rosalie, Ana, Jack, Ben, Camden, Elliot and Finley; and many wonderful friends.

At his request, his body has been donated to the University of New England School of Medicine, his ashes to be spread by the shore of Moosehead Lake.

Please remember Jim with an act of kindness, gesture of compassion, tell a funny joke, a sweet story or sit and make friends with a stranger.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation in his memory, we are grateful to Hospice of Southern Maine and all organizations that promote peace and the environment in Maine and the world