James C. Stanley

We celebrate the life of James C. Stanley, affectionately known as the "Million Dollar Baby", who was born on December 17, 1951, in Boston, MA where he was born and raised on Gypsy Hill. James was a loving husband, father, uncle and brother. He lit up every room he walked into with his smiling dimple cheeks. He always had a joke to tell to make you laugh or a fun fact to quiz you on. Even though James was known as the million dollar baby he was always humble. It was the little things in life that made him happy like taking a ride with his "old lady" or walking into a thrift store. He knew that happiness was in the little things. 

James had a natural talent for the drums, and love for drawing and dogs. Often seen drumming away on whatever was near whether it'd be a tabletop or steering wheel, sketching a little cartoon, flipping through a want ad book for a dog or walking the flea markets to find his treasures. He loved watching tcm movies in his recliner with a good home cooked meal. His family was the rhythm of his life, the sketch he held closest to his heart. He leaves behind a loving wife, Michelle Stanley, and a beautiful family of children - James, Michelle, Joseph, Peggy, William, Martha St. Clair, and Shane Stanley. He has 32 Grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings - Thomas Stanley, Linda Oja, Joseph Stanley, Phoebe Miller, William Stanley, Jill Boulanger, and Cornelius Stanley. James was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Valentine Stanley. 

In the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." This sentiment rings true as we remember James. His life was a melody of love, his laughter the drumbeat we will carry in our hearts forever. He was loved and loved everyone and will be deeply missed by all but never forgotten. We invite you to leave memories and upload photos of James to the memorial page as a tribute to his life well lived. 

We invite you to share your memories and photos of James on his memorial page https://my.gather.app/remember/james-stanley-dec-2024 . Let's celebrate his life, his love, and his laughter together. 

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024 at 11 a.m. in the Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg.  Burial will follow in Forrest Hill Cemetery, Fitchburg.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 4-7 pm and on Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 4-7 pm at the funeral home.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg is directing arrangements. 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor & Dan Serina Directors.