James Francis Clements

James Francis Clements, a resident of Arnold, Maryland, formerly of Annapolis, passed away on January 15, 2026, after a lengthy illness.
Born on October 11, 1946, in Cheverly, Maryland, Jim was the son of the late Philip and Amelia Pessagno Clements. He was preceded in death by his brother, Phillip "Butch" Clements, who died at age 21, and his sister, Barbara Corboy (DiNenna, Clements), who passed away in 2022. He is survived by his brother, John Clements, of Tennessee.
Jim is survived by his wife, Susan Ruberg Clements, and their two children, Sophia and Carson. He is also survived by four children from his first marriage to Jeanne Mathias Clements: Shannon Parry of California, Stacey Guadnola of Washington, Courtney Shamitko of Florida, and Kevin Clements of California. Through these children, Jim was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Above all else, Jim was a devoted and loving father and husband. He took great pride in his children and found deep joy in being present for their lives.
Jim attended St. Ambrose Catholic School in Cheverly and DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville before enrolling at the University of Maryland. However, he ended up studying at the Baltimore College of Law. His love for college was second only to his pride in having been a Volunteer Fireman at the Tuxedo Cheverly Fire Department, Station 22, as a 16 year old and having served in the United States Army as a Military Police officer at the Seneca Army Depot in upstate New York. He then later studied at Cornell Law School courtesy of the US Army.
An athlete in his younger years, Jim played football, rugby, and boxed. Later in life, he remained active, exercising daily and playing racquetball at the Severna Park Racquetball Club and later at the Merritt Athletic Club.
Following his service in the Army, Jim became a successful entrepreneur, leading several small businesses in Prince George's County and the Annapolis area. While he enjoyed his work and the independence it brought, his greatest love was always his family. Jim spent countless hours with all of his children, exploring the world with them, encouraging curiosity, and sharing his lifelong love of learning.
Jim was known for his warm smile and genuine kindness. He had an easy way with people and treated friends and strangers alike with openness, humor, and respect. He enjoyed exercise, travel, and above all, the relationships he built throughout his life.
A brief service of military honors will be held at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville on February 6 at 1:45 p.m. Interment will be private, with immediate family in attendance.
In memory of Jim, please consider a donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. https://donorbox.org/bgcaa-donate-button