James B. Hanna, beloved husband, brother, uncle, musician, printer, and longtime member of the Boothbay community, passed away surrounded by a lifetime of music, creativity, and memories. 

Jimmy was born on Sept. 13, 1943, in Utica, New York, the son of Joseph Hanna and Madeline Romanzo. He attended public school in New York before continuing his education at Rochester Institute of Technology, where he studied printing and advertising.

Creativity seemed to be part of Jimmy from the very beginning. At just 10 years old, he had his own printing press and was already putting it to use, printing tickets for school dances. That early fascination eventually grew into a lifelong career. Jimmy owned and operated Prints Charming in Waldoboro for more than 25 years, bringing his creative vision and years of experience in printing and advertising to countless projects and customers throughout the Midcoast.

Jimmy also proudly served his country in the United States Army.

While printing was his profession, music was one of the great passions of Jimmy’s life. A lifelong professional musician, he began performing at just 15 years old. His first gig didn't come with much of a paycheck—instead, he was paid with food—but it marked the beginning of a musical journey that would span decades and take him throughout New England and across the country.

Over the years, Jimmy performed in resort communities including at the Red Jacket in North Conway, New Hampshire. His music took him from New England to Colorado and Nashville. He was a member of a rock and folk group, and through the music scene, came to know members of Peter, Paul and Mary.

Music would also help bring Jimmy to Boothbay. He came to the region in the early 2000s, performing at the Rocktide Inn, and Boothbay ultimately became home.

Away from work and the stage, Jimmy loved spending time along the Maine coast. He especially enjoyed visits to Ocean Point and Hendricks Head on Southport, places where he could take in the ocean and the beauty of the community he had come to love. In the winter, Jimmy spent time in Fort Myers, Sanibel Island and Key West, Florida.

Jimmy was also a member of the Boothbay Region Lions Club and enjoyed being part of his local community.

Those who knew Jimmy will remember his great, infectious smile, his creative vision, and, of course, the music that followed him throughout his life. Whether he was behind a printing press, performing for a crowd, or simply enjoying the view along the coast, Jimmy brought creativity and personality to everything he did.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Margaret "Peggy" Hanna of Boothbay; his brother, Joseph Hanna of Rochester, New York; his sister, Lynn Murray of Utica, New York; sister-in-law, Sheila Behounek of Lewiston, and her son, Taylor Smith of Brewer; as well as his nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, fellow musicians, and the many people whose lives crossed paths with his over the years.

From the 10-year-old boy printing tickets for school dances to the 15-year-old musician playing his first gig for a meal, Jimmy found ways throughout his life to turn his talents into something that could be shared with others. His was a life filled with music, creativity, community, and an unmistakable smile—all of which will be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Jimmy’s family will remember him privately. Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, 975 Wiscasset Road, Boothbay.

Condolences may be shared at www.hallfuneralhomes.com