James Michael O'Leary

James Michael O’Leary Sr.  passed peacefully on November 20th 2024 on his 75th birthday surrounded by his family. James was the son of the late Arthur O’Leary and Rose (Mclaughlin)O’Leary.  Raised in Malden and attended Malden Schools before leaving school early to serve in the United States Navy during Vietnam.  James raised his family in Malden before moving to Wilmington to be closer to his family.  James loved to spend his time fishing and gardening in his retirement, but what he enjoyed most was spending time with his family and 7 grand children.   James is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lynn (Smith)O’Leary, Sons Eric Watts of Wilmington, James O’Leary Jr. and his wife Danielle of Peabody, Steven O’Leary and his wife Lisa of Wilmington, Daughter Colleen Fitzgerald and her husband Chris Fitzgerald of Billerica.  Grandchildren Emily, Steven, Meagan, Lilyana, Keira, Rex, and Isla.  He is also survived by his 7 siblings William O’Leary and his wife Pauline, Arthur O’Leary and his wife Nancy, Robert O’Leary and his wife Suzanne, Rosemary Goffredo and her husband Michael, Maureen Norton and her Husband Lawrence, Elizabeth Hoffman and her husband John. Veronica Cappotto and her late husband Michael, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Visitation for James will be held at the Weir-MacCuish Golden Rule Funeral Home, 144 Salem St, Malden Sunday November 24th from 4-8pm. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Monday November 25th at 10am followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden.

In Lieu of flowers consider making a donation in James' name to the Jimmy Fund jimmyfund.org/gift

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