James Willard Perkins
James Willard Perkins of Andover, Massachusetts passed away on July 2, 2022.
Although only 23 at the time of his death, James left a lasting impact – especially on his devoted parents Willard (Bill) and Annie Perkins and beloved siblings Laura Thomae and her husband Christopher, Benjamin Perkins and his wife Brittany, Ashley Burke and her husband Ryan, Mikaila Southwick and her husband Richard and Cassandra Gonzalez and her partner Fernando. James was never happier than when he was surrounded by his beautiful nieces and nephews – Kailey, Elise, Liam, Edie, Lucy and Jayden.
James was named after his two grandfathers but, as a child, was widely known as the mayor. His infectious smile would light a room and his unbounding energy sparked life (and laughs) into every conversation. He unabashedly greeted total strangers with curiosity, kindness, and affection. James was a jack-of-all trades and a master-of-many. He would fearlessly step up to plate, tackle the biggest giants, and jump from the highest mountain tops. Always the risk taker, there wasn’t a skate park he could not conquer or slope he would not traverse.
James loved kids. During his time at Andover High School, he worked as a counselor for Andover Youth Services, in the after school SHED program and Andover’s DCS summer camp program. After graduation, James had the opportunity to give back to all of those who had helped him along the way and worked to support the health and safety for abused children at Mt Prospect Academy in New Hampshire.
James never chose the straight path but always tried to embrace the journey wherever it led.
The family is thankful to God for James’ salvation and for the nearly 24 years together. He was loved, he will be missed and he will never be forgotten.
A celebration of his life is being held on July 8, 2022, at 10 am at Free Christian Church, 31 Elm Street, Andover, MA. The service can be viewed online at Celebration of Life on Vimeo
Those who choose to give a gift to honor James and his life can donate in memory of James.