James Williams Devno

With great sadness we announce the passing of James Williams Devno of Plymouth, MA on July 21st, 2025. Jim, as he was known to his family and friends, was born on March 23rd, 1950 in Boston, MA and was a graduate of Hull High School. He was the son of the late George and Marilynn Chappron.

Jim had many accomplishments in his life. He was a proud graduate of Mass Maritime finishing first in his class with a major of Electrical and Marine engineering. He went on to obtain his Masters in Management from Cambridge College. Jim had a successful career as a chief engineer for Maritrans for 23 years. Jim was also a professional airline pilot flying for Northwest Air Link. After retirement he taught at Mass Maritime while operating his own computer business.

Of all his many accomplishments Jim was most proud of his family. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Czarnomski), as high school sweethearts they were married for 52 years and created a beautiful life together. He enjoyed most spending time with his children and grandchildren, family vacations and traveling to Florida. He was an avid spectator at his grandchildren’s hockey games.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Patty. He was a cherished father to his son Christopher Devno of Parrish Florida, daughter Jacqueline Grennell and son in law JR Grennell of Plymouth, MA and a beloved grandfather to his grandchildren Ava and Ryan Grennell whom he adored. He leaves behind his sister and brother in law Michael and Linda Heiner, sisters-in-law Beverly Chappron and Emilia Devno, cousins Laurie and Skip White as well as many nieces and nephews. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now with his late brothers David Chappron, Paul Chappron, JJ Devno and sister Nancy McGraw.

Jim leaves a wide circle of friends, many that he attended Mass Maritime Academy with such as Geoff Wilkinson and Bobby Handschiegel as well as his dear friends and neighbors Vince and Cheryl Damiano. Jim was truly a compassionate and caring man, always willing to help family and friends. His presence will be forever missed.

Service will be held on September 13th at 10:30am at St. Bonaventure Church in Plymouth, MA. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:00pm at the Emery Rice Maritime Conference Center at Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay.