James C. Cage III (Jim) of Oak Bluffs, 73, died on Jan. 19 at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital from respiratory failure. He was born July 5, 1945 in Texas to James C. Jr. and Corinne Cage.

Jim married Susan Phillips in Oak Bluffs in Sept. 1994. He was previously married to Jacque Cage in Tisbury.

In July of 2000, he retired from Oak Bluffs Police Department. In 1992, Jim opened the business Rose Bud Balloons in Oak Bluffs. He was a talented artist and photographer and won ribbons from the Martha’s Vineyard Agriculture Society and the All-Island Art Show. His note cards can be found at Rose Bud Balloons in Oak Bluffs.

He was a Vietnam veteran and a sergeant in the Army’s Military Police. He received a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Army Commendation Medal.

As a police officer he was often perceived as stern. He was a wonderful man once you got past the stern exterior. Jim wasn’t shy about voicing his opinions even when others didn’t agree; some people would say he didn’t play well with others. He made life interesting and had a great sense of humor. Boating, art, star gazing and friends were things he loved.

He enjoyed celebrating holidays with costumes and his outdoor inflatables. You never knew what he would be wearing — masks, hats, light-up necklaces or his ostrich costume.

He loved his family and New England Patriots. He would look forward to going to Offshore Ale to share stories with his friends and have a beer. May the memories of Jim be happy one’s. Don’t be sorry, share a positive thought with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Phillips Oak Bluffs; sons, Richard (RJ) Cage, and John David Cage and wife Johanna; sister, Annette Zach and husband Arnold; many grandchildren nephews, nieces and cousins and beloved pets.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be announced later. Chapman Cole & Gleason is funeral home taking care of the arrangements. Memorial donations can be made to a charity of your choice.