James E. Sampson, 81

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — James Edwin Sampson, 81, of Williamstown, Mass., died Sunday December 2, 2018, at his home.

He was born in Somerville, Mass., on December 3, 1936, son of Clarence Edwin and Dorothy Ethel (Aiken) Sampson. He attended Williamstown schools and graduated from Williamstown High School.  Jim also attended Oklahoma Baptist University.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy and served aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Wasp and, following his honorable discharge, he joined the Reserves.

Jim worked at Steinerfilm for many years until his retirement. He served as the coach for both the little league, as well as the t-shirt league, and was a member of the Williamstown Recreation Committee. 

Jim enjoyed woodworking, photography, travel, taking rides and working around his farm. He especially enjoyed playing golf, and was a member of Waubeeka Golf Links in South Williamstown.

Survivors include his wife, Donna (Farinon) Sampson, whom he married on March 1, 1969. He also leaves his daughter, Kathleene MacAlpine and her husband, William, of Rye Beach, N.H.; son Scott Grant and his wife, Jean, of Williamstown; five grandchildren, Michelle, Daniel, and Bradley Grant and Elle and Holly MacAlpine; two great-grandchildren, Shawn and Bella; sisters Ruth Massoni of Southwick, Mass., and Virginia Stevens of Cape Cod, Mass.; brother Robert Sampson of Lanesborough, Mass.; as well as nieces and nephews. 

He was predeceased by brothers Walter and John Sampson; as well as his sister Phyllis Balzekas.

Funeral notice: A funeral service to celebrate the life of James Sampson will be held on Friday, December 7, 2018, at 11 a.m. at the Second Congregational Church, 81 Hancock Road, Williamstown, MA 01267. Burial will follow in Southlawn Cemetery. 

Please omit flowers.  Donations in his memory can be made to HospiceCare in the Berkshires or the Berkshire Humane Society in care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main St. North Adams, MA 01247.