James A. McQuaide Sr.

WATERFORD – James A. McQuaide, Sr., 83, a Charlestown, R.I. native who loved and retired in Norway, Maine, passed away Feb. 17, 2026.

Born May 6, 1942, to the late Helen and Arthur McQuaide, James was a dedicated member of Local 57 (S.C.S.G.). A Mason and a founding volunteer of the Charlestown Ambulance-Rescue Service, he was a pillar of his community.

An avid adventurer, James loved snowmobiling, racing cars, and touring the USA in his RV. He was a master storyteller who prioritized family above all else.

He is survived by his children, Sonja Bean and spouse Rodney, Doreen Reilly and former spouse Mike, James McQuaide Jr. and spouse Linda, Thomas McQuaide and spouse Kerri, Edward McQuaide and spouse Heather, Gina Weber and spouse Fred; his grandchildren, Christina Hebert, Tiffany Swallow and Jay Atkisson; Michael, Brianna and Brandon Reilly and Ashley Zonfrilli; Meagan Seekell, Andrew, Daniel McQuaide; Amber and Kai McQuaide and Morgan Roll; Amber Wylie, Austin and Caleb McQuaide; Brittany Weber; 22 great-grandchildren. He was the former husband of Joanne Almeida McQuaide and Joan Kaiser McQuaide. He is survived by his sisters, Jane Frink and Betty Petrowski.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Dell Lewis, Marlene Robar, and Arthur (Tink) McQuaide, along with their spouses; and two grandchildren, Josh Weber and Emily McQuaide.

Local arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris. Online condolences may be shared with his family at http://www.chandlerfunerals.com

A celebration of his remarkable life will be held at Dunn’s Corners Community Church, 221 Post Rd., Westerly, R.I. on March 21, 2026 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made to:

Shriners at

Lovetotherescue.org