James W. Ainsworth, Sr.

James W. Ainsworth, Sr. 83, of Narragansett and Dunedin, FL, died Wednesday. He was the husband of Helen (Merrill) Ainsworth. Born in Natick, MA, he was a son of the late George T. and Rose (Scotcher) Ainsworth. Mr. Ainsworth was the Equipment Manager for the Athletic Dept at URI for many years and prior to that he had been at Quonset Naval Air Station. He was very active in his community serving as a volunteer at South County Hospital, Past Commander of the South County Ambulance Corp and was also the first EMT in the State of Rhode Island, Past President of South Kingstown Forest Fire and was the Grand Marshall for the Fireman’s Memorial Parade a few years ago. Mr. Ainsworth was instrumental in founding the South Kingstown Little League and coached for many years. For five years in Florida, he was the Equipment Man for the Toronto Blue Jays during spring training. He is a US Navy Veteran of WW II. Besides his wife he is survived by three children; William L. Ainsworth of Wakefield, Kimberly R. Ainsworth of Narragansett, James W. Ainsworth, Jr. of Charlestown; two step-children; Julia Murphy of New Jersey, Christopher Murphy of Massachusetts; a sister, Pearl Ohsberg of New Bedford, MA; five grandchildren and several great grandchildren. He was the brother of the late George T. Ainsworth, Jr. A memorial service will be held Monday at 3 PM in the Church of the Ascension, corner of Kenyon Ave and Main Street, Wakefield. Burial will be private. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted. Memorial donations may be made to: South County Hospital, Development Office, 100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield, RI 02879.