ROCKLAND — James R. Dudley, 92, died peacefully on Oct. 21, 2016, surrounded by his family, at the Sussman House in Rockport.

Born in Rockland on Oct. 15, 1924, he was the son of Walter L. Sr. and Emma E. Young Dudley. Jim attended local schools until beginning work at a young age to help support his family. He continued working at various occupations past his 90th birthday, the most recent as a greeter at Walmart in Thomaston. He thoroughly enjoyed meeting people there and would often say, "I can work circles around these young people."

For more than 39 years, Jim took time off from work to cook lobsters at the Maine Lobster Festival. He was always willing to stop and talk with people from around the world about lobsters.

Jim was a faithful church member for many years and was always willing to help in any way, including driving the Sunday school bus.

Family was very important to Jim, but family wasn't limited to those who lived in his house. He was there for many kids in town, even stepping in as father of the bride for his daughter's friends and nieces. He loved children, especially his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. They loved him in return and he kept little treats in his pockets for them to find. Jim has left all who knew him a legacy of love and integrity.

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by three brothers. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Doris J. Ingerson Dudley of Rockland; his five children and their spouses, Linda and Fremont “Chip” Mitchell of Rockland, Cynthia and Dennis Larrabee of Kissimmee, Fla., Susan and Clyde Urquhart of Orono, Carol and George Krise of Rockland, and Donald Dudley of Cushing; one brother, Leroy Dudley and his wife, Beatrice, of Portland; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12, at 6 p.m. at Grace Bible Fellowship Church, 30 Sherer Lane in Rockland. The Rev. Mike Ferland will officiate. Interment will be at a later date in Seaview Cemetery in Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sussman House, C/O Pen Bay Healthcare, 22 White Street, Rockland, ME 04841.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.