James Rankin Black Jr.

"Bumpa"

James "Bumpa" Rankin Black Jr., 85, of Saco, passed away early Saturday morning on April 5, 2025, at home.

He was born in Biddeford on June 21, 1939, a son of James Rankin and Gladys (Norwood) Black.

James graduated from Thornton Academy, class of 1959. He was a three sport athlete who participated in baseball, winter track and was the captain of the football team. He was selected to the All South Western Conference Team his senior year. Just recently last year he got inducted into Thornton Academy Hall of Fame. In 1959 he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on Parris Island. He played football for the Marines while serving.

On August 6, 1960, James married Carol Boutet. The couple started their family and raised three loving children together.

James had a desire to continue playing football even after high school and his military service. So from 1964 to 1965, he played for the Portland Sea Hawks, a semi pro football team.

James was employed by New England Telephone for 35 years, serving as motor vehicle manager.  He made many lasting friendships that he spoke of often.

Community was a big part of Jim's life. He served on several boards, including The Wardwell, Creative Works System and Saco River Corridor. He was also Commodore of the Saco Yacht Club.

Nothing meant more to Jim than his family. He cherished the time they spent together. Many memorable moments we made while traveling with his wife Carol, wintering in Venice, Florida and holidays and special occasions were unforgettable times. He will be sadly missed.

His hobbies included woodworking and fishing. Some of his handmade works of art are still being enjoyed by family today.

He is survived by his wife Carol Black, children James R. Black III and wife Sue, Karen Smith and Susan Ebling and husband Steve. He is also survived by seven grandchildren Joshua and wife Shirley, Hillary and husband Julian, Sarah, Hannah and husband Peter, Rob and fiancée Sarah, James IV and Emma and Hunter and Dominque and seven great grandchildren Anthony, Rory, Amari, Lily Grace, Amiyah, Arlo and Jack James.

Visiting Hours will be from 11AM-1PM with a Funeral Service at 1PM Friday, April 11, 2025 at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James Street, Saco. A Graveside Service with military honors will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco. To view James memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations in James' name to Hospice of Southern Maine, 390 US Route 1, Scarborough, ME. 04074 or at www.hospiceofsouthernmaine.org