James H. Flanagan

James "Jim" Flanagan, 57, of Sanford, a longtime resident of Somersworth, NH, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 in Sanford.Jim was a loving husband to his devoted wife of 37 years. Together, they had 5 children. To his children he was a true father: gentle in discipline and strong in his convictions, with the stubbornness of an Irishman. His hugs could console you like nothing else.With strong devotion to his family, he battled the effects of a stroke to welcome his first grandchildren into the world. He continued to bear the hardships of his life with grace and perseverance. With his playful spirit and twinkling eyes, Jim had a knack for bringing joy to those around him.Jim was an avid sports fan whose motto was: "My two favorite teams are the Yankees and anyone playing the Red Sox." He enjoyed playing softball, bowling and chess.He is survived by his wife Susie of Sanford, his mother Rose Flanagan of Somersworth, daughter Sr. Mary Isidoris nee Carrie Flanagan of Alton, IL, daughter Jamie Boston, son Jesse Flanagan, daughter Marrie Flanagan, daughter Rose Garrity and her husband Bruce, grandchildren Dylan, Star and Zander Garrity, all of Sanford, and brother Richard Flanagan of East Kingston, NH.We pray that, reunited with his father Jerry and granddaughter Ava, he enjoys eternal life with God in Heaven. Jimmy, Daddy, Poppy, Grampa, Umpa - we miss you! You will always be our hero.Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday from 6-8 PM at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Somersworth, NH. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Somersworth.Condolences may be expressed at the Condolences tab at left.