James M. Julius Sr.

James M. Julius Sr. passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, after a short illness. He was born on June 23, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Andrew and Thelma Julius.

A proud Veteran, James served three years in the U.S. Army. While stationed at Fort Devens, he often visited the Whalom Roller Rink in Lunenburg, where he met the love of his life, Olga. They married in April of 1958 and made their home in Fitchburg, raising their family together. James and Olga shared 57 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2016.

James worked for Fitchburg Paper Industries and later retired from James River Paper Co. Beyond his career, he was a gifted mason who crafted numerous stone walls, sidewalks, and fireplaces throughout the community. He was also a lifelong member of the Leominster Sportsman’s Club, where he enjoyed hunting and fishing alongside his close friends Ralph, Louie, and Roger.

A talented taxidermist, James operated a small business known as Natural Wildlife Taxidermy. In recent years he discovered yet another passion—building detailed miniature houses out of balsa wood. His remarkable craftsmanship and eye for detail brought joy to many; countless family members, friends, and local businesses proudly display his handcrafted replicas.

James is survived by his three children: James Julius Jr. and his wife Joyce, Robert Julius and his wife Lori, and Elizabeth Adams and her husband James, with whom he lived for the past nine years. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren—Kristina Sanders (Michael), Nicole Galloway (Matthew), Peter Adams (Aimee), Mary Adams (Eric), Rachel Bourgeois (Alex), Grace Adams, Benjamin Julius (Shea), Nicolas Julius (Anna), and Carly Julius—and eight great-grandchildren. James is also survived by his sister, Patricia Yacobucci of Ohio, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Olga, and his brother, Dr. Lawrence Julius, DVM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leominster Veterans Memorial Center.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 5th, from 4–7 PM at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Rd., Fitchburg, MA.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM Saturday, December 6, 2025 at St. Anthony de Padua, 84 Salem St., Fitchburg, MA followed by burial at St. Bernard’s Cemetery, 96 Goodrich St., Fitchburg, MA.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA, is assisting the family with arrangements.