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James Summers Aaron

1944 - 2025

James Aaron Obituary

James Summers Aaron

Shutesbury, MA - Jim Aaron, 81, died peacefully and beloved at his home in Shutesbury on October 22, 2025. The cause was complications of Parkinson's disease.

Jim was born on January 28, 1944 in Northampton to Janet Summers Aaron and Daniel Aaron. He attended Northampton High School. As a boy, Jim fished the Mill River and grew to love the natural world which remained a source of wonder and sustenance to him throughout his life.

Having graduated from Columbia University in 1965, Jim returned to this area and began to build the house that would embody his deep knowledge of architectural history and timber construction. He became an expert sawyer, constructed a circular sawmill adjacent to his house and supplied often astonishing timber to shipbuilders and restoration carpenters.

An example to all who knew him of generosity, patience and kindness, Jim's loss is profoundly felt. He leaves his wife, Anna, his brothers Jonathan and Paul, niece Katherine and a multitude of friends whose lives were deeply enriched by his beautiful presence.

A gathering in his memory to be announced. Donations to Cooley Dickinson VNA and Hospice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Hampshire Gazette on Oct. 24, 2025.

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2 Entries

George A.

Earlier today

For a life well lived and love of people met and life shared, a sadness for the loss, a joy for no more suffering or pain, a thank you to the creator of all, for allowing me the pleasure of his company.

Mary Jennings

October 24, 2025

Deep condolences to my friend Anna on the passing of the wonderful Jim. I have such happy memories of them together from when they first met in Kilkenny, Ireland,to being welcomed in their home, to great conversations about this great big world. A big presence has left us. But the memories of Jim and Anna will always be there.

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