James George "Sonny" Morissette

James George “Sonny” Morissette, 89, of Waterville, Maine (recently Warwick, RI), passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

James was the loving husband of the late Nancy L. (Violet) Morissette, and the cherished son of the late Wilfred L. and Marie F. (Poulin) Morissette. Born in Waterville, Maine, he was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served as an MP during the Korean War. James often fondly recalled his time in Cuba, where he played drums in a local band, a love of music that stayed with him throughout his life.

Known for his many talents and boundless energy, James was a "Jack of all trades" and a master tinkerer. He worked in various skilled trades over the years, including at Waterville Window and Gamco, before starting his own business, Home Engineer and Supply. In the 1980s, at the height of the Cabbage Patch Doll craze, James opened a local "adoption center" to ensure these popular dolls were accessible to his community. Later, he ran a ski shop for many years, sharing his passion for skiing and the outdoors with locals.

In his later years, James found great fulfillment in his work as a locksmith, traveling throughout the community to help people who were locked out of their homes or vehicles, and providing re-keying services to local businesses. He loved being out and about, interacting with people and bringing laughter and relief to their days.

James was also a passionate skier, both on snow and water. He was proud to have been the first person to barefoot waterski around the entirety of Long Island, a feat that demonstrated his adventurous spirit. He loved to dance, always ready to "cut the rug" and entertain his friends and family.

Above all, James was known for his incredible sense of humor. He had a gift for making others laugh with his quick wit and playful remarks, and it was often said that he could always make people smile, no matter the situation. His lightheartedness and warmth will be remembered by all who knew him.

James adored his family, and his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the light of his life. He was particularly fond of photography, capturing moments of his family’s life with love and care, always ensuring that those precious memories were preserved for generations to come.

James is survived by his beloved children, Robin L. Morissette (Kelley E. Hewes) of Warwick, Jill Maurer (John Hoffstetter) of Coral Springs, FL, and John Morissette of Maine; his four grandchildren, Ashley Wrigley, Heather Morissette, Luke Maurer, and Laura Maurer; his three great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Abigail, and Cooper; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, Jim Morissette, and his siblings, Willena (Minette) Monroe, Wilfred (Bill) Morissette, and Marie Pulsifer.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick.

In lieu of flowers, please spread kindness in your community, donate to your favorite charitable event, or do something to help make the world a kinder, more caring, patient and loving place.

James will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His laughter, his love, and his generosity will remain in our hearts forever.

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