James B. “Hawk” Dryden, Sr. was born in Wilmington, Delaware, on the Southbridge side, to the late George H. Dryden and Marcella V. Dryden. He was the third of eleven children, nine of whom preceded him in death: Marion, George, Arnold, Pearl, Edward, Alverta, Ernest, Stephen, and Paul. His last remaining sibling, Louise “Weezie” Brown, resides in New Jersey near her family. James shared a close bond with his siblings and cousins, and they relied on one another for strength, support, and encouragement throughout their lives.

James was educated in the Wilmington Public School System and became well known around Wilmington as “Hawk.” He was gifted with his hands and
possessed a remarkable talent for mathematics. He loved building things and taking things apart to understand how they worked. A devoted son and true
“mama’s boy,” he often showered his mother with thoughtful gifts. He worked on the Wilmington docks, performing a variety of jobs that included loading and unloading cargo shipped from overseas. His work ranged from driving vehicles off ships to unloading clothing and non-perishable goods. In his younger years, James was known as quite the ladies’ man and was admired by many of Wilmington’s finest women. He was always sharply dressed, smelled good, and loved wearing stylish hats while riding in some of the
finest cars around.

One of the women he met in Wilmington was Marie Junior Hammond. She later moved to Boston in pursuit of better employment opportunities and to further her education. Soon after her departure, James joined her there, and the two were married. Together they raised five children: Mario, Toni, Kim, Tracye, and James Jr. As parents, they instilled valuable life lessons in their children, teaching them to always do their best, value education, and treat others with
respect, kindness, and honesty. James was also known as a very neat and organized man whose standards left a lasting impression on his family. While living in Boston, James became one of the few Black men helping to pave the way for minority construction workers. He joined the International Laborers Union Local 151 at a time when such opportunities were rarely extended to minorities. Fearless and hardworking, James became known as a respected construction leader who was unafraid of heights and capable of working at extraordinary elevations. He was part of the team that helped build some of Boston’s tallest and most iconic buildings, including the Prudential Center, the John Hancock Tower, and many others. Even in his later years, he remained connected to Local Union 151 and was honored with a plaque recognizing his years of dedicated service.

James was a hardworking man who gave his all to every endeavor he pursued. He was also an avid sports fan who enjoyed taking his children to Celtics games and watching sports with family and friends.

Music brought him great joy, and he loved dancing in his own jazzy style, often making his children laugh with his creative and made-up dance moves. He also
loved entertaining others. Though he and Marie eventually went their separate ways, he always remained an active and loving part of his children’s lives.

In 1985, James met, fell in love with, and married Carol Morrison Dryden. This December, they would have celebrated 41 years of marriage. Together, they raised Carol’s granddaughter, Ebony Morrison, until she eventually grew up and started a family of her own.
In 2011, while attending his sister’s funeral, James met his beloved companion, his dog “Mr. B,” also known as “Bebe.” The two became inseparable. They walked the neighborhood daily, making friends along the way, or sat together on the porch greeting neighbors as they passed by. James especially enjoyed watching Mr. B relax on a blanket near the window, barking at people, dogs, and cats passing the house. The two
grew old together, and as James’ health declined, their daily walks gradually came to an end.

During the pandemic, James experienced several health challenges, including a mild heart condition and a hip replacement. During one hospital stay, he was placed under sedation and remained unconscious for 35 days. His family feared he would not recover, but on the 35th day, he opened his eyes, unaware of how much time had passed. In 2021, he
was diagnosed with dementia, beginning a long and difficult battle. Over the next several years, he moved in and out of hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and back home again.

Throughout it all, Carol remained faithfully by his side, visiting him from facility to facility and bringing him the meals and desserts he requested. Because his children no longer lived in Boston, they depended greatly on Carol’s unwavering dedication and support. His children traveled back and forth over the years to spend time with him, often gathering together
in Boston to visit him whether he was at home, in the hospital, or in rehabilitation. James fought hard to maintain control of his life, but dementia is an unforgiving disease that progresses over time. Eventually, he grew tired, and in his sleep, he peacefully gained his wings in the early morning hours of May 17, 2026.

James leaves to cherish his memory and legacy: his loving and devoted wife, Carol M. Dryden; his sister, Louise Brown; his children, Paula Harley, Mario Hammond, Toni Dryden Breckenridge, Kim Thomas
(Victor), Tracye Dryden, and James B. Dryden, Jr.

He shared a special bond with his nephew George Dryden, who lovingly cared for him, often bringing him from Boston to Wilmington to spend time together. He also shared a close relationship with his nephew Kenneth Dryden.

James was blessed with more than 70 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom lovingly referred to him as “Pop Pop.” He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.

Visitation will take place at Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS Tuesday, June 2, 10-11 AM. Funeral service to begin at 11:00 AM. Friends and relatives invited.