James Ugone

Naples, FL, and Fort Fairfield, Maine - James D. Ugone, 93, passed away October 2, 2025, at a healthcare facility in Naples, FL, after a brief illness. Jim was born in Worcester, Massachusetts on February 9, 1932, to Anthony and Anna (DeSimone) Ugone.

Jim graduated from Fort Fairfield High School and shortly thereafter joined the U.S. Navy where he worked as a dental technician on aircraft carrier Midway. Following the Navy, Jim became a teacher and coach, beginning his career at Easton High School where one of his basketball teams won the state championship. Jim then moved back to Fort Fairfield where he continued his career as a Teacher and Coach. Always interested in education and the many students that he touched, Jim transitioned to the position of Guidance Counselor at Caribou High School. He then became the Principal of Caribou High School where he finished his career in secondary education. He was named Principal of the Year in 1991. Jim also held several post-secondary positions at Husson University, Northern Maine Technical College, and the University of Maine at Presque, Isle. In addition to his Bachelor of Science degree that he received from Husson University, Jim continued to advance his own education, earning several advanced degrees and certificates. During his time in education, Jim participated on several committees both at the secondary level and college level. He served as the president of the Maine Principals' Association in 1992 and 1993. Jim also received several awards and certificates of recognition and appreciation during his tenure in education. One thing that Jim was most proud of during his time as principal at Caribou was the celebrations that occurred around Christmas. What started as a way to ensure that those students truly in need received a Christmas gift quickly expanded to the entire student body. He made sure that all students participated and received a gift at Christmas. Jim and his wife began planning for the next year's event shortly after the first of each year - buying and wrapping gifts most of the year.

He was proud of the many times spent together as a family and with friends that included two weeks at Sebago Lake every year, traveling across the country with a camper, baseball and football weekends, Disney world, attending Broadway shows as well as other performances, spending time at Sebec Lake, and dancing. After retirement, he and his wife both found golf and quickly became part of the golf community at Cypress Woods Country Club in Florida, where they had moved to from Maine.

Jim was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Winona - Nonie (Chesley) in 2012. Jim is survived by his son, Tony and his wife, Tracy; his daughter, Lisa and her husband, Jim Quinlan. Jim is also survived by four grandchildren, Sydney Washington, James Ugone, Andria and Erin Quinlan; and two great-grandchildren, Maverick and Shiloh Washington.

The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments from 1-3pm Friday, Octover 24th at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center Street. A Graveside Service will follow at 3:30 pm, Friday October 24 at Corinthian Cemetery, Corinth.

Those who wish to remember Jim in memoriam, may contribute to Avow Hospice, l095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, FL 34015.