02/18/2026
James Scott Hanson
James Scott Hanson, 71, of Warren, passed away in Fall River, Massachusetts, surrounded by his family. He was the devoted husband and lifelong best friend of Dorothy (Platt) Hanson, with whom he shared 44 years of marriage.
Born in Meriden, Connecticut, Jim was the son of the late Harold and Amelia (DiCioccio) Hanson. From an early age, he carried with him a deep curiosity about the world and a generous heart that would guide him throughout his life.
Jim was a self‑employed independent contractor for more than 20 years and a communicant of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Bristol. Outside of work, he lived life to its fullest. He was an avid windsurfer, talented artist, car enthusiast, musician, and antique collector. A dedicated runner, Jim completed several marathons, including the historic 100th running of the Boston Marathon in 1996.
Kindness came naturally to Jim. He made friends wherever he went and never met a stranger. If someone was in need, he would drop whatever he was doing to help. Through his business, he often offered employment to those seeking a second chance, restoring hope when it was most needed.
To say Jim was a renaissance man would be an understatement. He had an artistic eye, a creative spirit, and an uncanny ability to fix almost anything. He could often be found tinkering in his “fort,” always working on a project or improving something around him. Music held a special place in Jim’s heart, and he passed that passion on to his children. During the rare moments when he slowed down, he could be found writing songs or playing his guitars.
For Jim, Dorothy was more than a wife—she was his partner in every sense of the word and his closest friend. He proudly took on household responsibilities, from cooking and cleaning to shopping and repairs. An exceptional home chef, Jim never needed a recipe.
As a father, Jim was a pillar of strength for his two sons. He was there for every stage of their lives—celebrating their triumphs, supporting them through pitfalls, and always offering a listening ear and sage advice when needed, even if it was, at times, unfiltered.
Jim loved the children in his life, especially his grandchildren. The pure joy on his face, and love in his heart when he would play games, laugh, and cuddle with the little ones was nothing short of divine.
A friend to all and a stranger to none, Jim had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people. Even a simple stop to pick up takeout often ended with a story about a new friend he had just made.
Though words could never fully capture the man Jim was, the kindness he gave so freely will live on in all who knew him. The superlatives to describe Jim could fill a thesaurus. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the memories he leaves behind will remain forever.
Jim is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his sons, Austin Hanson and Jeremy Hanson (Katherine); his grandchildren, Sean, Madeleine, and Holly; his siblings, Mark Hanson (Suzanne), Cindy Hanson (Dave Donohue), and Mary‑Dee Hanson (Suzanne); along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 141 State Street, Bristol, on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the Warren Volunteer Fire Department, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, or your local animal rescue.
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