Jaime Galarza had a heart for service, a soul for music, and an unlimited capacity for love of a community of friends and family that reached from his birthplace of Harlem to the Taunton home he built with his beloved wife Regina. Jaimes beautiful life journey of 54 years was one of honor, duty, devotion, and love; and will be celebrated at services on Thursday, November 15 at 11am at Christ Community Church in Taunton. Born in Harlem on June 19, 1964, Jaime Galarza, Jr. was the eldest son of Leticia Flores and Jaime Galarza. His proud Puerto Rican heritage helped define his character with a deep devotion to faith, family, and community. At an early age, Jaimes gifts as mentor and role model were developed through loving relationships with sister Melissa, brother David, and nephew Ezequiel. Boston became home in 1977, as Jaimes family moved from Yankee territory to the heart of Red Sox nation. Here, Jaimes insatiable love of learning and unbounded curiosity flourished in high school, as did his athletic prowess. Naturally gifted, Jaime excelled across three sports; and as ROTC leader. Those leadership experiences | on the field and in ROTC -- would serve as catalyst for a lifetime of service. To Jaime, service to a cause greater than self was the most noble calling one could pursue. For 31 years, he devoted himself fully as a member of the Boston Fire Department. First at Engine 53 and later as a member of Hazmat Special Operations and the arson unit, Jaime embraced the firefighters fierce loyalty of brotherhood and their highest standards of honor. He pursued with excellence the opportunity to serve and protect his community. Three decades of friendships forged in times of greatest challenge and risk | and over firehouse meals and laughter -- were cherished by Jaime. Jaime was uniquely gifted as an artist and balanced the rigor as first responder with the serenity and soulfulness of his music. For 21 years, Jaime played percussion and featured vocals as a member of eye2eye, a celebrated ensemble that created their own special magic at events throughout New England. Over thousands of miles and millions of notes, Jaimes bandmates became family and eye2eyes audiences, a cherished place to share his passion for music. Leadership, service, and artistry were all facets of Jaimes wonderful life. But, there was no greater devotion or achievement than the extraordinary bond Jaime shared with his wife Regina. Fittingly, they met in church. That moment of grace led to fifteen years of friendship, partnership, and marriage radiant in love and abundant in laughter, adventure, music, and abiding faith. Jaimes greatest source of pride was their children -- Ian, Marina, Corey, Miguel -- and his deepest joy and most hearty laugh was as Pap to grandchildren Leia, Lane, Jackson, and Elijah. Jaimes unconditional love endures and will continue to guide and inspire his family. (google it!) The Galarza family would like to express our gratitude and love to the community whose faith, friendship, and support has sustained us and whose memories of Jaime bring greatest comfort. We offer special gratitude to the exceptional team of doctors, nurses, and caretakers at Dana Farber; Joseph E. Finn, Boston Fire Commissioner; Rich Paris, President, Boston Fire Local 718; the faith leaders and community at Christ Community Church; and the Paulo and Galarza families. Please omit flowers, and in their place, we ask that you perform acts of kindness. Friends and family are invited to reflect and remember Jaime at a Celebration of Life Thursday, November 15, 2018 at 11:00 am Christ Community Church, 41 Stevens Street, Taunton, Massachusetts. Casual attire is encouraged. Arrangements entrusted to Crapo-Hathaway Funeral Home, Taunton. To light a memorial candle, sign the online guestbook or for church directions, please visit www.hathaway funerals.com or call 508-822-3318.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Gone from this earth yet never forgotten! We continue to honor your legacy and you are a part of our family fabric forever. Until we meet again in heaven Rest In Peace. Love always Terri and Karl
Terri Davis
Family
November 10, 2020
The ache of missing Jaime is still with me, and some days it's hard to believe he's gone. The past year has been filled with so many wonderful memories and celebrations of your life Jaime; you'll never be forgotten! I think of you so often, every time I hold the railing that you tightened, turn the outside faucet that you secured, turn on the fan that you stopped from wobbling and when I think, man I wish Jaime was here he'd know what to do, I remember to "Google It!" Gina carries your Spirit wherever she goes and family/friends will always be there for her. There are no fires to put out or Hazmat to deal with or things to fix up there, but I'm sure you and God are having some great conversations! Gone but never forgotten, love you Brother.
Terri Davis
Family
November 8, 2019
Gina - my heartfelt condolences to all of you. There are no words to comfort you but please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find a bit of peace in your wonderful memories of the lives you shared as you move through this difficult time. Such an peaceful loving soul who will be missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him.
I received your card today and had no idea....sending you the biggest hug
December 2, 2018
Hector Medal
November 18, 2018
Gina, my deepest condolences go out or you, and your family ... this is so heartbreaking... I had no idea .. I am just seeing this for the service .. and it was today ... .. I will keep you in my prayers ... what a beautiful obituary.... from what I've heard I've was a great Guy!! You are very blessed to have found this kind lof love ❤❤.. keep it close to your heart until you meet again .. may he forever RIP..
Sincerely,
Kelly Alves
Kelly Alves
November 15, 2018
As a mother of a firefighter, my prayers are with the family
November 15, 2018
Jamie , I want to say thanks you services you were a wonderful man , your in God hands now , prayer and thoughts are with your family and you well always be remember
Donna Waterman
November 15, 2018
It is with deep sorrow that I, through a newspaper article of Firefighter cancer related deaths, learned of Jamie's passing.
Jamie was the kind of person that one is proud to call a true friend. Not only did I work for years responding to hazmat calls at all hours of the day and night but we'd share life's simple joys and sorrows together. Jamie had a contagious laugh and positive attitude.
On scene one was confident that Jamie "had your back" no matter what. He was a text book of knowledge in very dangerous and unpredictable environments.
Jamie loved his family and would beam bright when talking about them.
My sincerest condolences to all Jamie's family and friends at this time of irreplaceable lost.
Tim Donovan BPD/Hazmat
Timothy Donovan
November 15, 2018
Sending thoughts and prayers to Gina and her family. May he rest in peace.
Augie Chaves and Family
November 15, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. You were a good friend and a great classmate.We started BFD together at the same firehouse. You were always happy and had that great smile, no matter the circumstances. You will truly be missed.Rest in heaven,dear friend.
Mark and Joy Oliver
November 15, 2018
MY CONDOLENCES TO THE GALARZA FAMILY ON THE LOSS OF JAMIE. HE ALWAYS SHOWED PROFESSIONALISM IN HIS WORK AND A GREAT PERSONALITY.THE ONLY THING BIGGER THAN HIS SMILE WAS HIS LAUGH.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. BILLY AHERN , DIST.CHIEF (BFD,RETIRED,ARSON SQUAD)
BILLY AHERN
November 14, 2018
There are no words to express the loss of my big brother Jaime. Having been cleared to be his donor match was a miracle, and I was so excited about being able to play a role of possibly saving him. For Jaime to have gone home with The Lord on the same day we were to begin the process reminds me once again that God orders our steps no matter what our plans may be.
Knowing that you are no longer in pain, and having to put on a brave face for us no matter how bad you felt, gives me the peace to go on.
Your voice, your advice, our arguments and makeup's as well as our deep conversations will be sorely missed. I am so blessed to have had 53 years with you. I look forward to seeing your handsome face once again in the presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ. I love you! ❤
Melissa Galarza McClary
November 14, 2018
Our most sincere condolences to the Galarza family. May God almighty give you strength & peace during this time. Heaven has welcomed home another angel.
From FF Edwin Carrasquillo E-55 & family.
Edwin Carrasquillo
November 14, 2018
To the Galarza family, may God strengthens you all in this time of loss. We were swimming and diving competitors in high school, but respected friends at all times. Rest in peace my friend- Devon Henry
Devon Henry
November 14, 2018
God says, welcome home my son, job well done .. Jamie will be forever missed.. my sister Gina and family through this sorrowful journey, we will be your strength. We are so grateful for all the beautiful memories Jamie blessed you and the family with to cherish. Our prayers for comfort, peace, and strength We love you, Laurie Ann and Rudy
Laurie Ann Whatley
November 14, 2018
Our sincere condolences to the Galarza family in the loss of your dear love one. Our prayers are as yours, that God provide his care and comfort you each day.
- Psalms 145:18,19
Your neighbor..
November 14, 2018
To the Galarza Family,
Caring Thougths of Sympathy and Prayers are with you all. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dee Dee Bell
November 14, 2018
My deepest sympathy for your loss. May you be comforted by the inspired words at John 6:40 where we are promised the hope of being reunited with our loved ones again.
Anne
November 14, 2018
I am lying in a hospital bed at Tufts in Boston ( little pnemonia no big deal ) . I'm 70 yrs young and am a 4 yr cancer survivor . As was my mother's way I read the herald and globe obits first . I did not know Mr. Galarza don't know why I started reading his obit but I could not stop. GOD must have needed him for an important reason. The words of love and admiration I read make wish I had met this young man in this life time . Everyone in his family and anyone who ever met him should be happy they knew him. My prayers to his wife , children , grandchildren , and friends.
Dennis Bain
November 14, 2018
Rest easy my friend
Sybil Owens Mason
November 14, 2018
To My dear childhood friend Jaime. I remember when we lived on Stockton Street in Dorchester where we grew up and had so much fun. The blizzard of 1978 was a lot of fun playing and jumping off my second floor porch into the snow and running down to Jaime's Mother's house to see who would win, of course he won I was a bit of a chicken of heights, lol. Jaime was so kind to me and my family. When I enlisted into the army national guards and went away the following year. Jaime would write me the most sweet letters which always made me smile and cry at the same time. He was a very thoughtful person, I am going to miss you , your smile and laughter definitely all the fun we had with you and your sister Malissa. Rest easy my friend ❤
Sybil (Owens). Mason
November 14, 2018
My heart is broken but the Joy my brother in law brought into my life will wash away the sorrow. A great man resting in the arms of our Savior Jesus.
Dianne Huggon
November 14, 2018
The Galarza family
Our deepest condolences to your family from Connie Owens, John,Dounte,Lance Ruelas and Dr.Rebecca Jackson may God bless you in your time of sorrow.
November 13, 2018
My prayers and thoughts are with the family. My condolences to his mother, sister Melissa brother David and his wife, children and grandchildren. I pray for comfort in this time of sorrow. Love from Annette, Troy Edler and family.
Annette Edler
November 13, 2018
Mr Fix it! Dear Brother in Law, words cannot adequately express how much you meant to us and how much we are missing you. We cherish each and every memory over the past 15 years and we've been so blessed since you joined our family. Rest In Peace dear Brother.
Love, joy, peace Terri and Karl
We got you Gina!
November 13, 2018
Cire Jones
November 13, 2018
To the Galarza family
I had the fortunate opportunity to work side by side on different occasions with Jamie while assigned to the police HazMat over 10 years ago.
His kindness and compassion was etched into my memory the first time I meet him.
With my deepest sympathy,Kevin Coyne BPD
November 13, 2018
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