Remembering Jim McBreairty

To the editor:
    We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our tremendous friend, Jim McBreairty, who served the great state of Maine and its people throughout his entire life with a limitless passion and unwavering commitment which we were privileged to witness firsthand when we served with him in the Maine State Legislature.     A highly-respected and successful farmer, Jim placed a premium on contributing to others throughout his life. In the town of Perham, he held multiple offices from treasurer to selectman, while also serving on the school board for a remarkable 20 years – helping build two schools and organize SAD 45. Jim then brought his selfless pursuit of public service to the Maine House of Representatives from 1975 to 1978, and the Maine Senate from 1979 to 1986 where his tenacity and perseverance as a public servant on behalf of his constituents was legendary.
    We also well recall the incredible acts of kindness Jim displayed as a legislator. He and his wife, Doris, initiated and championed a plan to bring four high school students from his district to Augusta each session to learn about our state government. And in 2007, Jim established the McBreairty-Dickinson Memorial Scholarship fund at Northern Maine Community College that provides three $1,000 scholarships annually to a student from Perham, Wade, and Washburn. Jim’s generosity of spirit in Aroostook County and Maine are truly an example and inspiration to us all and will reverberate for generations.
    But nowhere was Jim’s love and devotion more evident than with his late wife of 70 years, Doris, whom he cherished, and their daughters, Noreen McIntosh, Linda Seward and husband, George, and Molly Stevens and husband, Patrick; their son, Marvin McBreairty and wife, Edwina; his 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren; as well as his siblings, nieces, and nephews.
    We and the state of Maine have lost a treasured friend. Our deepest sympathies are extended to the entire McBreairty family – Jim will be sorely missed.”