James A. Nadeau
James A. Nadeau, J.D. November 6, 1945 – May 28, 2025
On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, James (Jim) Nadeau passed away peacefully in Savannah, GA.
Born in Dunedin, FL, Jim was an extraordinarily intelligent and quietly caring man. He grew up in Nashua, NH, attended Bishop Bradley High School, and earned full scholarships to Boston University and Harvard Law School–graduating at the top of his class, though he’d never mention it unless you were being particularly smug.
Jim spent most of his legal career in Nashua, NH, practicing real estate law at firms including Janelle-Nadeau & Jette, Sullivan & Gregg, and Hamblett & Kerrigan. He was known for his tireless work ethic, razor-sharp mind, and a dry wit that could disarm even the most stubborn opposing counsel. A man of few words–unless more were needed–when he spoke, you listened.
Moody Beach in Wells, ME, where Jim and his extended family owned a beach home, was a cherished part of his life. Summers were filled with sun, surf, bocce, wiffle ball, frisbee, beach walks, and unforgettable 4th of July celebrations.
In semi-retirement, Jim lived in Aurora, CO, before returning east to Beaufort and Dataw Island, SC, where he served as in-house counsel for a private family office. He later settled in Savannah, GA, where he married Mary Orsini (Nadeau). Together, they enjoyed the charm of historic Savannah and time with Mary’s daughters, Erin and Amy, and their families–often gathering at their Tybee Island beach cottage. Even in retirement, Jim offered pro bono legal advice to seniors and played golf regularly–though he never quite understood why he wasn’t a scratch golfer, despite a hole-in-one and a low handicap.
Jim was raised by his father, Arthur Nadeau, and his aunt, Jeannette Belanger, both of Nashua. From his first marriage to Francoise (Janelle) Carey, he was a devoted father to five children: Jim Nadeau, Michele Chadbourne (predeceased), Nicole Burget, Michael Nadeau, and Benjamin Nadeau. He was a proud grandfather to Maddy, Katie, Grace, Taja, Dylan, Elsie, Kaia, and Azalea, and is fondly remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends.
Jim cherished life, his faith, doing the right thing when no one was watching, golfing with friends, fast sports cars, playing cards (especially when winning), eating popcorn, and being a steadfast provider. Above all, material possessions meant little to him–decency, kindness, and a well-timed witty zinger meant everything.
A private service will be held in Savannah, GA, on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11 AM at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1003 E Victory Dr, Savannah, GA 31405. A celebration of life will follow later this year in New Hampshire or Southern Maine.
In lieu of flowers or cards, Jim would ask you to be kind–and to help that someone special in your life. If you choose otherwise, please consider donating to ALZ.org, or spend it on something fun– a new putter, slippers, or a beach chair – like he would have enjoyed.