James K. Farnsworth

James K. Farnsworth, 90, of Shirley, MA, passed away on November 16, 2025, of a severe brain hemorrhage.

James was born on January 15, 1935, to Raymond and Dolly Farnsworth in Shirley. He graduated from Ayer High School and worked at Worcester Envelope Company before being drafted into the Army in 1957. After being honorably discharged in 1959, James went to Newman Preparatory School in Boston before attending Lowell Technological Institute in Lowell, MA.

In 1963, James graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and worked for Pratt Whitney Aircraft in Connecticut. While working at Pratt Whitney, James and his brother Robert started their own custom deep drawing company, Herfco. James still played an active role in the business before he passed.

In December of 1971, James married the love of his life, Lorraine. They lived together in Shirley with Lorraine’s two children, Rodney and Kathleen.

James was a devoted and active community member who coached several youth sports teams. He also loved music and was a talented piano player. James’s love of flying prompted him to join and become president of the Crowhoppers, a group of individuals who flew ultralights in Shirley and the surrounding towns. Nature was perhaps James’ biggest passion, as he worked hard to support the conservation of land and promote respect for all living creatures.

James was predeceased by his brothers, Robert and Ray, and is survived by his wife, Lorraine, his step-children, Rodney and Kathleen, and his grandchildren, Cassie, Zachary, and Erika.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Jim for a period of visitation on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, at the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Jim’s burial with United States Army military honors will follow directly after the funeral service in Shirley Center Cemetery, 36 Brown Rd., Shirley, MA.

In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation in James' memory to Loaves & Fishes by mail to P.O. Box 1, Ayer, MA 01432 or online at loavesfishespantry.org/donate-now/.

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com