James B. Hindle

James Benjamin Hindle, known to friends and family as Jim, Jimmy, or affectionately as "Papa," passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Brockton VA Hospice and Palliative Care Unit on October 13, 2026, at the age of 101. Remarkably sharp well into his 100th year, he was known for his quick wit, warmth, kindness, strength, and generous spirit.

Born on April 20, 1925, in Taunton, Massachusetts, Jim was the son of James and Ruby (Davidson) Hindle, but he was raised by his paternal grandparents, Benjamin and Ellen Hindle. His family roots traced back to England, where his grandparents and other members of the Hindle family made their journey to America by boat. Growing up, he looked up to his grandparents, his Aunt Bertha who helped raise him, his Uncle Albert, his Aunt Francis, and his cousin Hal, who was more like an older brother to him. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of Christmas gatherings at his grandparents' home, where family came together for dinner and gifts, staying late into the evening eating, playing card games, and singing old Christmas tunes from England.

Jim's life was filled with rich experiences, hard work, and dedicated service. A proud World War II veteran, he served in the United States Army from August 2, 1943, until his honorable discharge on April 8, 1946. During his service, he held roles as an Entertainment Specialist, Marksman, and Medical Technician, traveling throughout the United States and Europe.

Following his military service, Jim attended Bryant College for one semester before beginning a long and dedicated working career. He spent 18 years as an assistant manager at Grant's department store, followed by 10 years serving the City of Taunton as a janitor at Taunton High School. He also worked alongside his longtime friend Jerry in a cleaning business for 15 years. Jim had always dreamed of owning his own convenience store. Although that dream never came to fruition, it reflected his ambition, independence, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Jim shared a loving marriage with his wife, Katherine Louise (Gudnoski) Hindle, affectionately known as Kay, whom he met through his cousin Ellen. On the day they were married, the couple set off for California in search of work, eventually hitchhiking their way back a few months later. Their adventurous spirit continued as they built a life together, spending time in Maryland, Massachusetts, and Maine. They enjoyed traveling, attending concerts, plays, parades, and festivals, taking family vacations, and hosting gatherings and cookouts with family and friends at home. Following Kay's passing on September 11, 1988, Jim made his home in Raynham, then Marion, and later Carver with his daughter.

Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. Having grown up surrounded by a large extended family, he understood the importance of those connections and the many ways love and care could shape a person's life. He carried that same devotion forward, remaining a constant source of love, care, and support for his daughter, Paula, and his granddaughter, Diana, whom he raised and loved as his own. He also shared a close and loving bond with his other granddaughter, Sam, and his great-grandchildren, Harley, Zoey, and Gabe. He was always there to listen, offer advice, and provide whatever support they needed. Whether sharing stories, playing games, talking for hours, or simply spending quality time together, family remained at the heart of everything he did.

Jim is survived by his beloved family, including his daughter, Paula Goldblatt; his granddaughters, Diana Joseph and Samantha Goldblatt; and his great-grandchildren, Harley MacMullen, Zoey Joseph, and Gabriel Joseph. Other important people in his life included his grandson-in-law, Andrew Joseph; former son-in-law, Alan Goldblatt; his granddaughter Samantha's boyfriend, Ethan Tocci; and close friends Chris Banks, Kathryne Kulisich, and Steve Giordano.

Jim's family connections extended across generations, including his younger sisters, Mary-Ellen, Margerie, and Louise; his late stepdaughter, Cheryl Smith; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He shared a particularly special bond with Bruce Whowell, who continued to visit and spend time with him often throughout his final days.

Throughout his life, Jim was active in his community as a member of Winthrop Street Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend David Swenson. He enjoyed participating in a bowling league and had a paper route. He also enjoyed spending time with his longtime friends Walter and Jerry, frequenting familiar places where everyone seemed to know him by name.

In his younger years, Jim enjoyed playing basketball, hockey, baseball, and football. He was also an avid stamp collector, amassing an impressive collection of stamps from around the world, which eventually ended up with one of his sisters. He enjoyed taking walks, sharing stories of his past, and reminiscing about the people, places, and memories he held dear.

Jim carried love, honesty, determination, and devotion into everything he did. He valued family and friendship and had a generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand, offer guidance, share his knowledge, or tell it like it is. His love for his family was unwavering, and even at 101, his will to keep living was driven by his desire to spend more time with those he held close. He believed that family was the foundation of life and that love, kindness, and goodness should be shared whenever and wherever possible.

After more than a century of life, Jim leaves behind countless stories, cherished memories, and many loved ones who will carry his love and legacy forward. To the many who knew and loved him as Papa, his presence will be deeply missed.

May he rest peacefully, reunited with his beloved wife, Kay.