James D. Colby, 90

GILFORD — James Daniel Colby, 90, passed away on July 2, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

James was born on Aug. 3, 1934, in Laconia, the son of the late Daniel Ervin Colby and Estella R. (James) Colby.

James was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam. He retired from the military after serving for over 20 years. Once retired, James enjoyed gardening, singing in the church choir, singing with his barbershop quartet, bowling every Monday in the Weirs, volunteering at the school with Janet, traveling with Katharine and spending time with his long-time friend Nan Fay. James was also a 9th generation farmer in the 1815 family farm house in which he resided. He enjoyed raising chickens and hatched baby chicks in his home.

James is survived by his daughters Katharine Colby Major and her husband David Major, and Janet Giles and her wife Angela; sister Joanne Clark; half-brother Jon Colby; grandchildren Jillian Knudsen and her husband Justin, Keely Major, Riley Major and her husband Bradley Woods, Colby Giles, Cooper Giles; and great-grandson Odin Knudsen.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15, in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia.

A graveside burial with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, at Bayside Cemetery, Union Avenue, Laconia, with a lunch reception to follow.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.