AUBURN — James O. Coyne, 85, of Auburn, passed away on Thursday, March 7, after a long battle with heart issues. He was a lifelong resident of Auburn, Harpswell and Moosehead.

He was born in Auburn, March 4, 1928, a son of Frank and Albina (Normandie) Coyne. He grew up in the Auburn area and attended local schools. He was a graduate of Edward Little High School.

After graduation, James worked in sales for Barry Paper Co. He also did photography for them. On Sept. 16, 1950, he married Esther Morin and they started a family together. During that time, he worked as the Maine branch manager of the Concord Group, he was president of State Mutual Insurance and was on the board of directors for Green Mountain Insurance. He also ran and operated Coyne Realty and Coyne’s Greenhouse and Nursery, after his father passed away in 1975.

James loved his family, children and grandchildren. He also loved nature, his flowers, wild birds, woodworking, hunting, fishing, painting and photography to capture it all.

He is survived by his two sons, Greg Coyne and his wife, Cindy, of Harpswell and John Coyne of Auburn; three grandchildren, Alyssa and Jack Coyne and Jasmine Clarke; a brother, Thomas; and a sister, Pearl.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 48 years, Esther (Morin) Coyne; and three brothers, Eugene, Joseph and William.

You are invited to share condolences and special messages in James’ memory through his online guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.