It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James H. Bean Jr.

My father was well-known; I remember feeling like he was a local celebrity when I was a kid. Everywhere I went with him, it seemed that someone was yelling "Hey Jimbo!" from across the street or out their car window, and after each chance interaction, I had the pleasure of hearing yet another wild story from my dad's past as he filled me in on who they were. It seemed as though he had an endless pool of fond memories to pull from, always looking back with laughter. Those who knew him knew that he wasn't afraid to test the limits of what life had to offer.

My mother and I are struggling to raise the necessary funds to give my father a proper burial. His passing came unexpectedly, and he had no savings to speak of. My brother, Marshall, is currently incarcerated, and our father's passing was just 2 months shy of his release. I hope to raise enough for a spring burial, one that my brother and I can both attend.

Your donation will assist not only in end-of-life costs but will also allow me to grieve with my family. I live across the country in Washington state and am unable to afford the trip to Massachusetts. I want to help my mother clean out my dad's apartment and return to Massachusetts come spring for any planned services.

Any amount helps in a time like this. Thank you for considering.

I look forward to hearing more stories of my father through those who knew him.