LEWISTON — James A. Charlton, 73, a resident of Quaker Ridge Road, Leeds, died Wednesday, Aug. 10, at Central Maine Medical Center following a lingering illness with his loving family by his side.

He was born April 25, 1938, in Lewiston, the son of Emmanuel and Sadie (Harding) Charlton. He was a graduate of Monmouth Academy.

On Sept. 5, 1958, in Monmouth, he married his wife of 52 years, M.Miriam Ryan of Monmouth. Jim worked as a self-employed landscaper, general contractor and also worked for the Town of Leeds. He was a member of the 12 Hour Social Club in Lewiston.

Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting, cribbage, camping, the ocean, Moosehead Lake and NASCAR; he was also known as the original “American Picker.” His greatest joy however, was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife. M.Miriam Charlton of Leeds; eight daughters, Jamie Freeman and husband, Vincent, of Turner, Joni White and husband, Donald, of Leeds, Juni Thompson of Blue Hill, Jeani Preszler and husband, Timothy, of Magnolia, Del., Judi White and husband, Roy, of Leeds, Jodi Loonan and husband, Sean, of Queensbury, N.Y., Jena Millette and husband, Eric, of Auburn and Jill Charlton of Camden, Del.; his son, James E.A. Charlton of Leeds; 18 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Jane Charlton and Judy Wade of Florida, and Joanne Calder of Falmouth.

He was predeceased by his parents; his daughter, Juli Corkum; his grandson, Cody James Charlton; and two brothers, Jeffrey and Joel Charlton.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.finleyfuneralhome.com.