Jim was born on May 29,1957, in Woodstock, NB. He was pre-deceased by his loving and dedicated mother Charlene Doucette. Jim was raised by his mom Charlene and his "second mother"/older sister Colleen Laskey. For years, Jim operated the Debec General Store. He was known locally as the mayor of Debec because of his long involvement in planning, sourcing, resolving and participating in community development. Jim loved the community of Debec and those who called Debec home. He himself also felt that Debec was his home and saw the community members as extended family.

Jim most recently served as the general manager for the Co-Op Grocery and Farm stores in Florenceville, where he also developed a strong respect and admiration for the community. He was always extremely proud of his commitment to his work and his time at Co-Op was no exception. He greatly appreciated working with the employees of these stores as well as meeting and getting to know the people of Northern Carleton County.

Jim is survived by his spouse Michelle Griffin, three sons Ryan Kennedy (Claire), Trevor Kennedy (Yoshimi) and Brendan Kennedy (Winter) and stepson Connor Griffin. Jim also has two beloved granddaughters, Hana and Mei. In addition, Jim grew up with his siblings who will remember Jim as a blessing to their lives: Colleen Laskey, Richard Doucette (Heather), Cherie Doucette Linder (Paul). He also has several nieces and nephews both near and far.

There will be no public visitation,

Mass will be held on Tuesday January 14, 2025, at 11:00AM from St Gertrude's Roman Catholic Church, Woodstock.

Interment will take place in the spring at Calvary Cemetery.

If so desired, donations in Jim's memory can be made to the Debec Animal Shelter.