James A. Papia, Jr.

James Andrew Papia, Jr., 67, of Auburn, NH, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Born June 29, 1958, in Waltham, MA, he was the son of Miriam Louise Pray and the late James Andrew Papia, Sr.

James was the devoted husband of Maureen Michelle Papia, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage. They were married on August 30, 1980, in Salem, NH—a love story marked by devotion to one another, constant faith, and a deep love for family.

James graduated from Salem High School in Salem, NH, and later earned his Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from St. Anselm College in Manchester, NH. He briefly served with the Salem Police Department before discovering his true passion for construction and remodeling. His career began with his brother Lawrence in their first venture, Papia Specialties, a small but meaningful start that set the foundation for his life’s work.

After several years, James launched his own company, Papia Design Remodeling, where his craftsmanship and creativity flourished. He had an exceptional imagination for build and design, leaving his mark on homes throughout New England, Florida, and even during periods spent in Minnesota. Above all, he simply loved using his creativity to bring new life and warmth into the spaces he touched.

James loved traveling with his family and spending winters in Florida, where he felt most at home in the water. The beach was his favorite place. But more than any place or hobby, his greatest joy came from time spent with his wife, his parents, his siblings, his children, and especially his grandchildren.

He was a man of deep faith—steadfast, prayerful, and unwaveringly committed to covering his family in prayer. As the eldest of five, he carried a quiet strength and a mentor’s heart. His humor, warmth, and belief in restoration shaped countless relationships. James had a gift for bringing people back together, healing divides, and investing in the people he loved. His influence was felt not just in his family, but in every circle he stepped into.

James is predeceased by his father, James Andrew Papia, Sr. 

James is survived by his wife, Maureen Michelle Papia; his children, James Sebastian Papia and his wife Jessica Lynne and Tiffany Michelle and her husband Aaron Drewry Clymer; and his grandchildren: James Eric (15), Ella Kay (13), Luca John (12), Everly Ikaiah (11), Josephine Brave (7), Millie Grace Miracle (4), and Leonard James Clymer (2). He is also survived by his mother, Miriam Louise Pray; his stepfather, John Edwin Pray; and his stepmother, Melinda Ann Papia; as well as his siblings Lawrence Frederick Papia, Greg Ronald Papia, Christine Ann Spellman, and Cindy Lee Asloglou. He is further survived by his siblings’ spouses, his stepbrothers, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and relatives whom he loved deeply.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 11:00 AM - 12:00PM, with a service starting at 12:00PM at the Cremation Society of NH, 243 Hanover St., Manchester, NH. Reverend Chip Sutton will be officiating. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Convoy of Hope.