James Vasken (Jimmy) Hovagimian, of West Bridgewater, passed away March 4, 2025 at the age of 81. James was the son of the late Zaven James and Grace (Sebilian) Hovagimian. Born on December 29, 1943 in New York, he spent the early years of his life growing up on East 31st St. along with his two older brothers, Arthur Zareh and Charles Ara (Chuck). The family moved to Massachusetts, first to Worcester, where his sister Ellisa Jane was born, and later to Brockton.

A life-long musician, Jimmy was a phenomenal and versatile drummer, in the genres of Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Jazz and Rock. He played in several bands, including Big John and the Blends and Eastern Standard Time. He also toured on the road for a time.

Music was his passion. Jimmy learned to play drums with a few lessons early on and then by studying the greats, Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. Primarily a percussionist, he played the Doumbeg for Middle Eastern music and taught himself to play the Armenian Oud. He was planning to learn the Duduk as well. He had a wide range of musical tastes and especially loved classical music.

Jimmy worked alongside his brother, Arthur (d. 2023), who owned Oxford Cleaners & Tailors in No. Easton, as a dry-cleaning presser. His brother Chuck (d. 2010) worked nearby at Stonehill College. The Hovagimian brothers were well-known and well-regarded in the Easton area.

Survived by his sister, Ellisa Jane Hovagimian-Fraihat and her husband Mahmoud Fraihat, nieces and nephews Serene Fraihat-Hanson, Shaddi Fraihat, Nyila Fraihat, Michael Hovagimian, Khris Hovagimian, Derek Hovagimian, Trina Hovagimian-Collins, grand nieces and nephews, cousins Ruthie Pehlivanian-Deutsch, George Sebilian Jr., sister-in-law Barbara Hovagimian, and dear friends, all of whom he adored.

Devoted to his family and a true friend, Jimmy was kind, thoughtful, and caring, with a quick wit and dry sense of humor. He will be missed greatly and remembered always.

All are welcome to attend visiting hours on Saturday April 19, at Russell & Pica Funeral Home, 441 S. Main St., West Bridgewater from 3 to 6 p.m. Burial at Melrose Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.