James Matthew Preble, 54

James Matthew Preble, 54, of Franklin, MA passed away unexpectedly Sunday, July 16, 2023 at his home.

Born September, 11, 1968 in Needham, MA, he was the cherished son of Alfred F. Preble and Carole R. Preble of Franklin, MA.

Jim was the beloved dad of Zachary M. Preble and Aibhilin E. Preble.

He is also survived by his brother, Brian N. Preble, of Springfield, VT and his sister, Jennifer L. Preble, of Greenville, RI.

He also leaves behind his sister in law, Catherine Preble, of Springfield, VT, his aunt, Susan Smith, of Mansfield, his aunt and uncle, Kenneth and Lynnette Nyberg, of Franklin, and his cousin, Eric Nyberg, of Boston, as well as cousins in Texas.

James was a sensitive soul – perhaps too sensitive for this world. He abhorred cruelty of any kind and dearly loved animals and nature. He enjoyed walking the trails at DelCarte Conservation Area or even just observing the many birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and woodchucks who call our backyard home. He kept a tin of peanuts near the back door and was delighted when a visiting chipmunk would eat out of his hand.
He was happiest when he could rescue something old - that most people would dispose of- and restore it to its original glory. He once spent hours sanding, oiling, and polishing an entire collection of neglected and rusted tools that had been passed down from several generations before him. He proudly created a display of the restored items which looked as good as new.

He loved movies and music (especially country) and would happily spend hours discussing his favorites with anyone who shared his interests. Hopefully, he can continue these discussions with his much loved predeceased maternal grandmother, Emilie F. Smith, who left a huge empty spot in his heart in 2014.

Words never came easily to Jim but he showed his profound love for his children and other family members in many different ways. He was rarely judgmental and managed to see the good qualities in most people. He was very proud of his beloved son and daughter, Zachary and Aibhilin, and they were blessed to have had him as their dad.

Jim was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Calling hours are on Saturday, July 22nd from 2-4:00 PM at Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St, Franklin, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to your favorite animal shelter.