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Rev. John Dillon Day

John Day Obituary

Age 94, of Hyde Park, Sept. 7. Devoted brother of Mary Margaret Day of Hyde Park. Beloved son of the late Michael & Bridget (Dillon) Day. Survived by many loving cousins, including those in the Willimantic, Manchester & Hartford, CT area, as well as many friends. A Rite of Reception will be held at Most Precious Blood Church, 43 Maple St., Hyde Park on Tues. at 2PM. Msgr. Day will lie in state until 8PM at Most Precious Blood Church. Concelebrated Funeral Mass Wed. morning at 11. His Eminence, Sean P. Cardinal O'Malley, OFM Cap. will be the Principal Celebrant. Msgr. Day served as Pastor of St. Mary of the Hills Church, Milton. He was a Parochial Vicar at St. Mary Church, Lynn, St. Bridget Church, Framingham, St. Mark Church, Dorchester & a Senior Priest in residence at Most Precious Blood Church, Hyde Park, Carmel Terrace & St. Patrick's Manor, Framingham. A graduate of B.C. High, Class of 1930, he attended Boston College & St. John's Seminary & was ordained in 1939. Honorary Member of the B.C. Hall of Fame & B.C.'s Order of Golden Eagles. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made to The Carmelite Sisters For The Aged & Infirmed, 600 Woods Rd., Germantown, NY 12526 or the Wm. J. Flynn Fund, Boston College Athletic Dept., c/o Conte Forum, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467. Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home Milton(617) 696-4200

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Published by Boston Globe from Sep. 10 to Sep. 11, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for John Day

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Joanne Scaramuzzo

September 15, 2007

When I think of mgsr day,I think of how he was always smiling.As a former St.Mary of the hills milton student,I have so many fond memories of him (Passing out report cards,First friday masses,and especially the way he knew everything about everyone and truly made us all feel special.)I know I share with many the priviledge of knowing him....My sympathy to to his sister and family....May he rest in peace...Joanne Cody Scaramuzzo

Margaret Flagg

September 12, 2007

Msgr. Day lived out the love of God for us in his respect for us as we are. He had an incredible reverence for the human person as a part of God's tribe. He touched myself and my husband Jeff through his friendship with my mother-in-law Frances Flagg at Carmel Terrace. He was a wonderful friend and support to us.

Also, Msgn Day knew all the words to the real BC foodtball fight song -Sweep Down the Fields", We loved to sing it and remeember his classmated Ted Marier and Herb Kenney who wrote it.

His serenity in death reflected a deep faith and a vocation so well lived.

Arlene Dugan Hartmann

September 12, 2007

My family grew up on St. Mary's Road, across from the rectory. I knew Monsignor Day well back then and can still remember what a wonderful man and role model he was. I know he touched many people in such a positive way in his lifetime. He will be dearly missed.

Elizabeth Loughran McKeen

September 12, 2007

Another great man has left us and he will be truly missed.

Brenda Connelly Smith

September 11, 2007

Reading these entries brings me to tears, they all ring so true of a truly remarkable human being and one of the truly rare holy people on this earth. There are so many words of personal reflection, but in the end, I feel incredibly honored and humbled to be a friend of MSR Day. Please, say a prayer for us, we will miss you and we thank God for the gift of you.

Anne (McGrath) Ingoldsby

September 11, 2007

Msgr. Day was someone who made everyone smile. He knew your name, your birthday, your "story". His very presence made me feel like God was with me. He will be sorely missed and I have no doubt that he is with our Heavenly Father, continuing to look after each of us.

Brian Walsh

September 11, 2007

Msgr. Day was an amazing man, who inspired so much good will and good feeling wherever he went. We were fortunate to have him in the parish guiding us in our formative years. His example - of faith, reverence, humility and humor, curiosity and interest in others - made us all better and more thoughtful Catholics. Though born in America, he's really one of the last links to the old flood of devoted Irish priests who filled the immigrant parishes and the Jesuit schools. True greatness - or rather true goodness - is very hard to define, but, Msgr. Day, you certainly enjoyed a share of both by serving the rest of us. In just one of the many languages that you enjoyed so much, I wish to say 'maximas tibi gratias, carissime amice et pastor, pro tot donis tot annos nobis omnibus datis!' Or as you often said so simply, "God love you!"

Brian

Jim & Dorothy Taylor

September 11, 2007

There was no generation gap with Monsignor Day.He was loved by my Dad,by my wife and me,and by my daughters.Those moments he spent with each generation and committed to memory every detail made us realize who we had among us:Priest,scholar,friend,confidant and saint.We join so many others in thanking God for lending us Monsignor Day for all these years. Let us remember him as we know he still remembers us.

Claire Kahler-Pope

September 11, 2007

Monsignor Day was everywhere. He touched many lives along the way. I know he touched my live by visiting both parents many times when they were sick at Milton hospital. He was at my military wedding over forty two years ago at St.Pius in Milton. He was a kind and gentle priest who loved serving God and people.

Karin Fleming

September 11, 2007

Although I have only been a Fleming since I married my husband ten years ago, I am blessed to be a part of such a wonderful family. My mother in law always talks of Monsignor Day and my husband Dennis and how he had such a positive influence on his life. He always believed in him and always gave him the benefit of the doubt. I thank him for that and know that Dennis is the wonderful father and husband he is today because of Monsignor Day. Thank you for being a part of our wedding ten years ago. You will be sadly missed and remembered always.
Karin Fleming (Lincoln, RI)

Ann-Marie Taylor - Darling

September 11, 2007

It is hard for me to remember a time when I didn't know Msgr. Day. The effect he had on my life and the lives of my family is immeasurable. He was a part of so many of the most important events of my life. Most memorable is the ceremony at which he married my husband and I and remarried my parents. I will be forever grateful for his presence in my life.

Jay McDonald

September 11, 2007

Although many years have passed since I last saw Monsignor Day, I will always remember his kindness and good humor. May he rest in peace.

Jay McDonald

George and Mary Anne Yezukevich

September 11, 2007

I met Msgr. Day through my in-laws, who were friends of his. However, I will always remember the day when my wife, Mary Anne, and I ran into him in a Dedham restaurant as he dined with his sister. After learning that I knew an old Lithuanian priest-friend of his from his seminary days, he broke into an ancient Lithuanian folk song, which his friend, the late Fr. Al Abracinskas, had taught him while both studied at St. John's. We were stunned at his brilliance, a true gift from God.

Sr. Julie Franchi, MFIC

September 11, 2007

My life's path crossed with Msgr. Day so many times: At St. Clare High School, Roslindale in the 60's, at St. Mary of the Hills, Milton in the 80's, and at Most Precious Blood in Hyde Park in the 90's. He was one day older than my Dad, a special bond they shared. He annointed my parents and befriended them. A great man and wonderful priest has left our world and gone to heaven. Knowing him has truly enriched my life!

Alison (Fennelly) Boyce & Family

September 11, 2007

There are no words to express the sadness in my heart for the passing of a great priest. Having gone to "the other Jesuit College," we had many laughs over our rivalry even when we had his breakfast served on HC dishes the morning of a big game back in the 80's!
He was there for us as children of God and then some. He allowed my uncle to give us our sacraments, but still shared in their grace. Thank you for your spirit and devotion! I am sure Msgr. Day will always be watching over his huge flock!

Annmarie and Larry Fennelly

September 11, 2007

From the first day we met Monsigner at the back of St. Mary of the Hills before Sunday Mass he made us feel a part of that beautiful community. Our children flourished under his guidance.
The phrase "Catholic upbringing" was made real for us and the wonderful priests and nuns who assisted him.

He was there for the happy times and the sad times. When my brother (a Jesuit) was dying, he was there being ever so kind and thoughtful. His dear sister Margareta was such an inspiration to us as well.
It was through God's Grace that we benefited from the priestly priest.

Joseph Huff

September 11, 2007

Thank you Father Day for all you have done for myself and my family. You will always be with us.

Paddi Taylor-Donato

September 11, 2007

I am having such a difficult time putting into words just how remarkable a man, priest, and friend Msg. Day was to me and my family. His guidance and love played such a tremendous part in my life. I will carry his inspiration and memories with me forever. Love, No. 3 Taylor Girl

j harttford

September 11, 2007

Over the years I have met Father Day at different functions. He knew everyone and always had a funny story, but what I will always remember is that when my dad was in the nursing home Father day would visit and talk with my dad(something that surprised us) and before my dad died he received holy communion from Father Day... Father Day reached so many people with his quick humor. He was truly instrument of God... To his family, my sympathy.

June Fiore

September 11, 2007

An icon has passed; a devoted and loving friend to the Hickey and Melvin families of Hyde Park for many, many decades. Always known to me as "Father" Day and to older family members as "Dillon." Dear Father Day may you rest in the peace of Christ.
June Ann Melvin Fiore

Anthony Clancy

September 11, 2007

When I was young at St. Mary's Lynn Father was so popular and love by all the people of Lynn He was great with the boys High School. He loved the Red Sox. He always had time to talk to us and advice us in our trials. He was the greatest priest I ever met. I know Father Day you are happy with the Lord. You were a priest's priest.

Daniel Manning

September 11, 2007

Father Day was a friend to all who knew him. He was so devoted to his dear sister. He was such a great support at Carmel Terrace where my parents lived. He was such an inspiration and truly a superb priest. He sure knwe and loved the Red Sox. He had great devotion to Our Blessed Mother. The archdiocese has lost a great priest.

Mark Dacey

September 11, 2007

Father John Dillon Day was such a friend to my family. He baptized me and married my parents at St. Bridget's Framingham. We were so happy when he returned to Carmel Terrace. He came to dinner and we had a ball. He was a real genuine good priest. Well done good and faithful servant, You were a giant of a priest.Till we meet again.

Joseph Cooney

September 11, 2007

Father Day was aninspiration to all whose lives he touched and ministered to in Framingham. He married my parents at St Bridget's Framingham and came to visit when he move to Carmel Terrace. He was "A man for all seasons", He was a giant of a real true priest of God.

William & Eleanor Dillon

September 10, 2007

Oor dear friend Msgr.Day will be missed by all the lives he touched.
Love in prayers,
Bill and Eleanor Dillon

Priest RCAB

September 10, 2007

The greatest tribute that I can pay to this great and holy man is to recall the respect and veneration in which he was held by many Boston priests, including myself. Small in physical stature, he was a giant in every other way.

Vickie del Valle

September 10, 2007

I worked for 8 and a half years in Carmel Terrace, place where Monsignor Day lived. I will remember him forever. He was very special for me, he was my spiritual master. Everlastingly thankfull to God, because He put him in my life.

Pat Fleming

September 10, 2007

Msgr. will be missed by all. He always had a sympathetic ear, was a good listener and did his best to help others. He was a mentor for all the children of St. Marys School. Children enjoyed when he would visit and ask questions, knowing answers would mean a night free from homework. He would tell my son that he was one of his favorite altar boy being shorter that Msgr. Day. In our family, Msgr. would share stories of his younger days playing baseball and football in Hyde Park with their grandfather Dovey. He would stop on his way to his sister Margaret's home if the boys were playing street hockey. Always ending conversation with "God bless you." He will always be in the hearts of our family!

The Fleming Family
(Dave, Pat, Patti, Jackie, David, Danny and Dennis)

Tom and Patricia Barry

September 10, 2007

To the Family of Msgr. Day;

Msgr. Day was truly a great man who will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.
The Barry Family
(Formerly of Cliff Rd. Milton)

Patty McHugh Hanks

September 10, 2007

Monsignor Day had a lasting impression on me as a young child at St. Mary of the Hills back in the '60's. When he would enter the classroom his happy, sincere and warm presence was so palpable he truly made me feel very close to God. We could talk about the Red Sox for hours. (But the sisters wouldn't let us)
Monsignor Day was present for my parents 50th anniversary, family members deaths and always cared so much.
Over the years I often thought of Monsignor Day, but in my busy life, regretfully, I had not kept in touch with him.
Just about 2 years ago my son who attended BCH came home and told me that a priest had come to speak with the entire student body. In my son's words: "he was the man". My son told me this guy was over 80 years old, but he was the best speaker to the teenage audience they had ever had. The students gave him a standing ovation. He told me all the kids loved him. When I asked him his name, I was shocked when he said Fr.Day.
I told my son about my encounters with Monsignor Day and my son instantly felt the same connection....and yes, he was still talking about the Red Sox.
I'm sure he will have a great seat for the World Series this year.

May the road rise to meet you Monsignor Day and until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Patty McHugh Hanks
Chris Hanks BCH'06

Eileen Norrington (Hickey)

September 10, 2007

Msgr. Day was a beloved friend of the Hickey family. I have wonderful memories of him from my childhood when he came to family events.

EILEEN MORRILL

September 10, 2007

MSGR. DAY WAS AN EXAMPLE TO ALL OF CHRISTIAN INTEGRITY AND HUMAN KINDNESS. HE WAS A FRIEND AND ADVISOR TO ME AND MY FAMILY. HE CAME FROM THE SAME AREA AS MY FATHER AND THEY SHARED A BIRTHDAY NOV. 2. THAT DAY WILL BE A DAY TO REMEMBER THAT I NOW HAVE IN HEAVEN ANOTHER TO GUIDE ME ALONG WITH OTHERS WHO WENT BEFORE. MSGR. MCMAHON MSGR FALLON ETC ALL GOOD HYDE PARK RESIDENTS AND FRIENDS OF MSGR DAY. I WAS FORTUNATE TO KNOW ALL AS DAD WAS THEIR FRIEND AND LENNY'S COUSIN. HIS DAD WAS FR. LENNY'S UNCLE.MSGR. WAS HERE FOR ME WHEN THEY WERE GONE AND I BLESS HIM FOR THAT HE WAS A BIG HELP TO ME. HIS LOSS WILL BE FELT BY MANY. REST IN CHRIST MSGR. EILEEN MORRILL

Ken Melchin

September 10, 2007

I will always rememeber the time we spent going to see the Pope in Boston with him. We were all in High School, some of the boys who went attended BC High, myself I went to Xaverian. He fondly reminded me of his time as an Eagle and often wondered why I was a Hawk. I grew up with him while attending St. Marys, served as an alter boy with him and eventually he was involved with my wedding and my sons birth. Father Day was was a huge part of my life as well as many others. The man loved God and loved the people of God. He will be sorely missed. I only wish I could be there to pay tribute to him personally. Gods speed!

Anna Falzone

September 10, 2007

A truly spiritual person who taught us how to share his love of the Lord. May he rest in peace, showered with the blessings of all who loved him.

September 10, 2007

To a great, wonderful man who had love for everyone, I will miss you dearly Msgr.
Love,Tammy DiTullio (Carmel Terrace)

The Stanton Family

September 10, 2007

You are a great man, beloved priest and an honor to know from Saint Mary of the Hills to Hyde Park to Framinham. Thank you, We will continue to pray for you and your sister Margaret.

Phil O'Brien

September 10, 2007

I met Father Day at St.Patrick's Manor where my mother is a resident. We shared our love of BC Sports during our many conversations the last five years. I will always remember his kindness, incredible memory, saying the rosary with his sister and walking with a BC Hat on his head.
It was very appropriate that I learned of his passing with a moment of silence at the BC Football Game on Saturday. I am sure he was watching the game. I
have been blessed to have known Father Day.

Frances Turner

September 10, 2007

Fr Day will be missed by the many people he touched, and helped to inspire thru his life time. He touched the family of Robert F. Turner, and our son Jim Turner, when he was a student, and player at B.C.

Kristin Perry

September 10, 2007

Monsignor Day was a huge influence in my youth having attending St. Mary of the Hill's Church and Elementary School. He was giving, loving, kind, and always had a smile on his face, even when I wasn't exactly being on my best behavior as a child. I know that he is in heaven experiencing God's everlasting love and peace. He will be missed, but his memory lives on in thousands of people who were graced by his presence and touched by his constant faith.
Sincerely,
Kristin Perry

Leo Shea

September 10, 2007

Monsignor John's death is sad news. John was truly a man for others. He worked tirelessly for the church, youth and his parishioners.
He undertook his ministry with 100% commitment and interest. His loyalty to BC, The Jesuits, the parishes where he lived and worked
is an important part of his legacy.
My father Leo Shea and John worked as judges years ago at H.S. school debates. My dad always spoke with great admiration about John's positive spirit and dedication. I must add that he always reached out to others with a gracious smile. May he rest in the Peace of Christ.
Father Leo Shea, M.M.
Maryknoll Missioner
Montego Bay,
Jamaica,
W.I.

Jim O'Hara

September 10, 2007

A great man who made a lasting impression on me for his learning and heart, from baseball trivia at St Mary's to discussing the Greek Odes of Pindar with him when I was in graduate school.

Maureen kroll

September 10, 2007

To the family of Monsignor Day,
Never has there been a more blessed priest or beloved pastor than Monsignor Day. He was the priest of our childhood, performed our weddings and baptized our children. Rest in peace now for you are now in Heaven with our Lord and the Blessed Mother.
God Bless always,
Jack Mahan and Family

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