James E. Rier Jr., 80, of Wellington, Florida, passed away on February 15, 2026. Born June 20, 1945, in Newburgh, New York, to Gene and Louise Rier, Jim led a life marked by professional distinction, public service, and steadfast devotion to family.

From an early age, Jim displayed a passion for automobiles. In 1958, he was crowned Maine State Soap Box Derby Champion and competed in the National Soap Box Derby. He attended the University of Maine before earning a degree in mechanical engineering from the General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan (now Kettering University). He began his career with General Motors, ultimately serving as a senior project engineer for Buick Motor Company. A recognized authority on exhaust emission systems, he traveled extensively across the country testing vehicles and contributing to advancements in automotive engineering.

On August 12, 1967, Jim married Linda Toth of Flushing, Michigan. Their 58-year marriage became the foundation of a life rich in family, community, and shared adventure. After a decade in Michigan, Jim and Linda returned to Downeast, Maine to raise their family in his hometown of Machias.

In addition to serving as president of Rier Motors Co. for 25 years, Jim became deeply involved in civic and educational leadership. He coached Little League Baseball and Peewee Basketball, and later chaired the Machias School Board. His commitment to education extended statewide through two terms on the Maine State Board of Education, including six years as chair. In 2003, he was appointed Director of Finance and Operations for the Maine Department of Education, where he earned respect for his expertise in educational funding. Under Governor Paul LePage, Jim was appointed Acting Commissioner of Education and formally nominated as Commissioner in January 2014, concluding his distinguished public service career in that role.

Jim also served on the boards of Bangor Hydro Electric, the Maine Community Foundation, the Regional Medical Center at Lubec, and the Washington County Education and Economic Development Alliance. A lifelong community leader, he also served as president of the Highland Green Community Association in Topsham, Maine.

Beyond his professional and civic accomplishments, Jim found joy in woodworking, gardening, and spending time on the water—particularly water skiing on Indian Lake. He delighted in family breakfasts with his grandchildren, and was renowned among them for his pies. An enthusiastic traveler, he and Linda explored the world together, taking dozens of cruises, counting Italy among their favorite destinations. Above all, his greatest happiness was simply being at Linda's side.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his sons, Matthew (Lisa) of Boynton Beach, Robert (Kris) of Alexandria, Virginia, and Scott (Cynthia) of Alexandria, Virginia; his brother, David (Robin); and his sister, Sherry. He leaves eight cherished grandchildren: Ashton, Matthew Jr., Nicolas, Elizabeth, Sophie, Chloe, Ella, and Mia; two great-grandchildren, Emma and Tanner; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Gene and Louise Rier; his in-laws, Albert and Mary Toth, who regarded him as a son; his niece, Jessica Rier; and his nephew, Eric Snowdeal.

At the end of his life, Jim received excellent care from the staff of Lisbet at Wellington Bay and Trustbridge Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Trustbridge Hospice Foundation

5300 East Avenue

West Palm Beach, FL 33407