James Roosevelt Mendes, Sr.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years Elizabeth “Betty” (Kearney) Mendes, his parents Christian and Isadora (Gomes) Mendes along with his sisters, Jenny Pina, Clara DeBarros, Dorothy Johnson and Mary DaLuze and brothers, John Mendes, Lino Mendes, Richard Mendes, Leonard Mendes, and Edward Mendes, along with his son in law Fredrick Moore.

His cherished children are: Esther “Denise” Moore of St. Petersburg, FL, Janise Mendes (Eugene) of Port St. Lucie, FL, Robin Santiago (Bruce Sr.) of Wareham, MA, Sherrie Donalson (Sammy) of Vero Beach, FL, James Mendes, Jr. (Michele) of Hyannis, MA, Elaina Mendes (Robert) of Hyannis MA, and Crystal Reed (Quincy) of Douglasville, GA. Jimmy was a proud “Papa” to 15 grandchildren and “Big Papa” to 11 great-grandchildren who adored him. Survivors also include many nieces and nephews.

Jimmy was a hardworking entrepreneur. He owned Bassett Lane Cleaners, Jaymen Carpet, Diamond Limousine, and JRM Landscaping. After retiring, to keep busy, he worked for several more years at Hy-Line Cruises. He had a passionate love for horses, classic cars, boxing, and music. He, along with his wife, was an avid fan of all the New England teams—the Celtics, the Red Sox, and the New England Patriots—of which they had season tickets. His enthusiasm, humor, and integrity will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Funeral service will be on November 1, 2025. Viewing will be at 10:00 a.m. with service immediately following at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Union Church, 805 Attucks Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601. Burial will follow at Marstons Mills Cemetery, located on Route 149 in Marstons Mills, MA. Immediately following the cemetery interment, the repast will be held at the Fraternal Lodge AF & AM, 1989 Falmouth Road, Centerville, MA 02632.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the VNA Hospice House at 901 37th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Funeral services provided by Doane Beal & Ames Funeral Home, Hyannis, MA 02601.