As a junior in high school, he saw his first Gilbert and Sullivan opera performed by the Oberlin College Gilbert and Sullivan Players. The opera delighted him at once, and he made up his mind to attend Oberlin and join the Players-which he did, performing with them at the college and also acting and directing in their summer theater on Cape Cod. These experiences led to his life’s work, play, and involvement in community.
After receiving his PhD from the University of Iowa, Jim moved to Massachusetts where he taught for 30 years and served as chair of the English Department at Mount Holyoke College. During his career, he was awarded Guggenheim and Woodrow Wilson fellowships. For most of his life in the Pioneer Valley, Jim also continued to be involved in theater as an actor and director of many productions with the Valley Light Opera, Amherst Community Theater, and Welcome Yule. After retiring from teaching, he moved to Amherst and turned his energy to the Conservation Commission, Amherst Club, Friends of the Jones Library, and Master Gardeners. If a volunteer was needed, Jim always stepped up and said, “Yes!”
His love of life propelled him through a gradual medical decline. Despite his neurological disease, he remained positive and never complained. With the loving support of his wife of 31 years, Trish, he continued to travel to Europe, attend local plays and concerts, and as “Boompa,” make visits to Virginia to spend time with grandchildren. “Have wheelchair, will travel” became a fitting motto. Even as his illness progressed to dementia, he was known as “the smiling one” and was always happy as people came to visit. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Linda Manor, Hospice of the Fisher Home, and his devoted at-home caregiver, Jenna Dupris, for their compassionate care and kindness.
Jim was preceded in death by his first wife Virginia and two of his siblings. He leaves behind his sister Mary Kay Davies, his wife Trish Farrington, his stepson Matthew Azano, daughter-in-law Amy Price Azano, grandchildren Eve and William Azano, as well as several nieces and nephews and their families.
Those who knew Jim will remember not only all that he did, but the joy with which he did it. He will be missed for his witty sense of humor, his natural ability to connect with anyone, his dedication to his yard and garden, and his patience in helping others. For donations in his memory, please consider the Kestrel Land Trust, PO Box 1016, Amherst, MA 01004; or the Hospice of the Fisher Home, 1165 N. Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002.
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