James Hansbury Sr. passed away on April 9, 2010, at his home following a prolonged illness. The founder of the Chelsea Youth Baseball League, established in 1963, was 82. Mr. Hansbury identified a gap in organized baseball opportunities for teenagers who had completed Chelsea Little League and needed a league suited to their age group. Working alongside Al Palladino, Ralph Briggs, Paul “Choc” Glazer, and Mayo Satin, Mr. Hansbury was able to realize his dream by starting the new baseball league for players, ages 13 through 16. Former Mayor Alfred Voke also helped Mr. Hansbury with resources so the youth league could survive and prosper. Everett Square Sporting Goods was also generous to the league. āIām so proud that my father was able to fight and advocate for young people so they could also enjoy the sport that he grew up with and loved,ā said James Hansbury Jr., Mr. Hansbury’s son. According to James Hansbury Jr., he and his father maintained a close bond and both valued the people instrumental in making his father’s vision of the youth baseball league a reality.
A lifelong Chelsea resident, Mr. Hansbury was born in the city and left school to assist his parents and siblings. During World War II, he served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army near the war’s conclusion and later served in South Korea. His career included 40 years at Samuel Cabot Paints, and he also worked part time at Heller’s Liquor Store. Beyond his professional work, Mr. Hansbury remained active in sports as a member of the Chelsea Municipal Softball League, where he played for the Max’s Delicatessen team and earned All-Star honors. One of his teams captured a state softball championship. Before establishing the Chelsea Youth Baseball League, he coached in Chelsea Little League for several years. His community involvement extended to political campaigns, including support for Chelsea Mayor Joseph Margolis. In retirement, Mr. Hansbury and his son James Jr. took annual trips to Fort Myers, Fla., to attend Red Sox spring training, and he also participated in Chelsea Day in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. to reconnect with former classmates and friends. He treasured conversations with friends, family, and community members, particularly those who collaborated with him to establish the Chelsea Youth Baseball League. A service honoring his life took place Tuesday at St. Luke’s Church, Chelsea, where the Rev. Loring, former pastor, left retirement to officiate because of his affection for Mr. Hansbury.
