James Leo Coughlin

On March 8th, 2026 James Leo Coughlin completed his long walk in life, just as he had lived, with his loving wife, Anne Santo Coughlin, devotedly by his side, surrounded by the love of his children, their spouses and his grandchildren. He was 90 years old and was born in Winchester, Massachusetts, where he and Anne raised their family, with a deep faith that he called upon through every chapter of his life. His favorite hymn, "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," wasn't just a song he loved—it was the quiet rhythm of his days. Its message of trust, strength, and companionship shaped the way he navigated through the world. He served as a proud veteran of the United States Navy. After returning home, he married the love of his life, Anne Santo, on July 20, 1957, and together they built a devoted family of 5 children. He built a career as a master electrician and foreman, and took great pride in being an active member of the IBEW Local 103, where he made many friends and colleagues, and worked on significant projects including updates to the electrical systems in the Boston Garden. Upon retirement, he moved to Falmouth, Cape Cod, which quickly became his favorite place, one that stirred new passions in him — for golfing, fishing, and the simple joy of being surrounded by family. There he spent countless days on the water and enjoyed time with his children and their families — gathering for backyard barbecues and their cherished annual Fourth of July celebrations. In his winter home in Port Charlotte, he further honed his passion for golf, scoring his first hole-in-one at the age of 82.

He shared a rich and fulfilling life with his beloved wife, Anne, the partner who walked beside him through every joy, challenge, and blessing. Together they raised a family rooted in deep love, lots of laughter, and faith. He is survived by his loving children, their spouses, and the grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy: Anne Marie Howse and her husband Randy, and their children Justin, Brittany and her wife Jenna, and his treasured great-grandson Blake James Borrelli; Jan and Michael Rimmel and their daughters Lauren and Krissy; Patty Cusato; Barbara and Jack Crowley and their sons Scott and Matt; and Jimmy and Kelli Coughlin and their children Cassidy, Sam and his wife Paige. He is also survived by his beloved sisters—Arlene Cioto, Denise Lewis, and Judy Welliver and their families.

As his steps slowed in later years, his spirit never dimmed and he continued to live the message of his favorite hymn—seeking closeness with his family, sharing his quick wit and trusting that each day was a gift. Though his earthly walk has ended, those who loved him take comfort in knowing he now rests in the eternal peace he longed for—a peace promised in the song that guided his life. May we honor him by walking our own paths with the same quiet strength, fierce sense of humor, and steadfast love for his family. A celebration of life mass will be held at The Trinity Episcopal Church, 124 River Road, Topsfield, MA on March 20, 2026 at 5:30 pm.