JAMES A. RAFFERTY

Jim was one of the Good Guys. Rest Well My Friend.

Being with Jim through grade school and high school and beyond, you really get to know a person. Jim was one of the great ones. I am not sure how he did it, but he would never speak badly of anyone. He would only compliment people. He seemed to know everyone and was always looking for ways to do a good deed. He was kind and generous. He was the only guy I know who could keep my kids (when they were young) entertained with his stories. And talking about stories, I could tell you lots...

I'm lost for words on the sudden passing of Jim. He golfed here at Prairie Club in Glenview and had offered to do Santa Visit to my grandchildren this X-Mas Eve. He was a wonderful man and had great stories. RIP Jim. You will be truly missed everywhere.

We at Madonna della Strada Chapel are sad to learn of the death of our dear friend Jim Rafferty. He adored Christmas, especially at his alma mater, Loyola University Chicago. In fact, he first appeared on Christmas Eve at Midnight Mass in Madonna della Strada Chapel in 2016 and was an angel sent from God, offering to assist as needed that night. That was the beginning of a wonderful relationship with him volunteering at his beloved university and chapel. Jim was a lector and greeter at the...

I messaged you today because I missed seeing you. I was so sad to get a call from your sister with the sad news of your passing. Many Sundays I waited for you to arrive at Loyola University, Chicago. Our friendship started when I offered you a ride in my Police car after watching you struggle walking from the parking garage to Church at Madonna Della Strada. After that one Sunday we made it our own special routine. I will always remember all the great conversations we had in that short ride....