James R. (Jim) Traynor, 89, former longtime resident of Pembroke, MA, passed away from complications of pneumonia on September 7, in Brockton, MA.

Born August 11, 1937, in Quincy, MA to Robert and Phyllis, Jim graduated from Quincy High School, afterward entering the U.S. Navy where he served as a radioman. Upon leaving the service, Jim met the love of his life Louise and started a family, moving to Pembroke in 1969.

A famously hard worker, Jim eventually went on to a career in carpentry where he excelled. His fine woodworking skills were put to use at home, at friends’ houses, on vacations, and wherever else the mood struck.

Not exactly shy and retiring, Jim was known for his outsize personality and notorious pranks, including the installation of a false wall with two-foot-high door for his cousin returning from a sales trip; floating a paper mache dragon on the pond at the crack of dawn; and distributing Groucho glasses to his brother's hockey team.

A born organizer, Jim was the catalyst for many camping trips, parties, and fried clam fests. He loved cooking for big occasions and always designated himself as camp cook. His omelets were legendary.

Jim especially loved his time at Blueberry Hill Campground in the 1970s where he made many lifelong friends.

Jim is survived by his wife Louise; children Bob Traynor and his wife Amanda of Greenfield; Mike Traynor and his wife Barb of Middleboro; Steve Traynor and his wife Rose of Quincy; his brother Pat Traynor and his wife Sue of Marshfield; five grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his brother Bill Traynor.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 16 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Shepherd Funeral Home in Kingston, MA.