James Clemons of East Montpelier, Vt., chose to die peacefully on Friday morning, May 1, 2026, with his family by his side. He lived with Parkinson’s disease for 10 years.
Nine of those years were lived fully and actively — downhill skiing at Sugarbush and out West, cross-country skiing on the trails near his home in East Montpelier, cycling the back roads (eventually upgrading to an e-bike), sailing and kayaking on Big Averill Lake, and traveling the world with his best friend, Bud. It was only in the 10th year of his diagnosis that Jim was no longer able to do the things he loved. He accepted the narrowing of his physical world with grace and broadened his focus on preserving the natural world he cherished.
Jim was born in Montpelier, Vt., on June 13, 1951. He was a lifelong learner, graduating from Williams College, earning a master’s degree from the University of Vermont and receiving his law degree from Vermont Law School.
His intellect was matched by his humility, and he carried his accomplishments lightly.
Jim built a distinguished legal career spanning more than three decades. As an attorney, he focused on business, corporate, banking and insurance law, earning a reputation for thoughtful counsel and a steady, principled approach. He practiced with Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC in Montpelier and was a respected member of both the Vermont and American Bar Associations.
To those who knew him best, Jim was defined not by his résumé but by his presence. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and a deeply engaged grandfather. He valued time outdoors, meaningful conversation and the quiet rhythms of Vermont life. He was also funny — often quietly so — and, to many, an absolute legend. Jim liked to be busy, always working on something with his hands or his mind, and those closest to him will remember the colorful language that could emerge when a project didn’t go quite the way he planned.
He is survived by his wife, Joni; son, Chandler (Lauren), and granddaughter Annie; daughter, Kathryn Lagerstedt (Marty), and their daughters, Grace, Kate and Julia; and siblings, Martha (Charlie), Patty (Don), David (Janet) and Janet; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Jim lived a life of purpose, curiosity, humor and quiet strength. He faced the end of his life the same way he lived it — with intention, dignity and grace.
A private gathering to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vermont Foodbank.