James Philip Kennedy II

James Philip Kennedy II, 78, of Scranton, died Thursday at his home in Green Ridge surrounded by his family. His wife is the former Christina Cusick Dorr. The couple was happily married for 53 years.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late James and Marie Kennedy. James was educated in the Scranton School District and attended Penn State University. James acquired his real estate broker's license in 1966 and opened the Kennedy Real Estate Agency.

In 1975, James was elected magistrate for the first of six consecutive terms, serving in the office until his retirement in 2010. He proudly served as magisterial district judge for 34 years, one of the longest terms of office in Lackawanna County history. His judicial temperament was one of compassion and common sense.

Upon retirement, James remained active in his real estate business. He enjoyed spending time with his loving wife, children and grandchildren. Many summer days were spent relaxing at his cottage on Baylor's Lake.

Surviving are his children, Kara Kennedy Ware and her husband, Paul, Scranton; James Philip Kennedy III and his wife, Bridget, Scranton; Thomas Kennedy and his wife, Kelly, Scranton; Patrick Kennedy and his wife, Danielle, Scranton; and Christina Kennedy Donato and her husband, Anthony; and grandchildren, Kate, Cecilia, Mary and Michael Ware, James Kennedy IV, Thomas, Patrick, Cecilia, Caroline and James Kennedy, Jack and Lily Kennedy, and Anthony Donato.

James was predeceased by his grandson, James Donato.

The funeral will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. Paul's Church, Penn Avenue, Scranton.

Friends may call Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Paul's Church.

On behalf of James, the family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Sacred Heart and to his beloved caregivers Nicole Dolinak and Amy Wiatrowski.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.

Arrangements, Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton. For online condolences, visit www.duffyandsnowdon.com.