James T. Coombs

James T. Coombs, of Dracut, formerly of Waltham and Billerica, died Monday, July 7, 2025 at Blaire House of Tewksbury. He was 87.

Jim was born in Waltham on July 4, 1938, a son of the late James and Mary (Ford) Coombs and was a graduate of Waltham Vocational High School. Until his retirement he worked as a machinist at the Standard-Thomson Company in Waltham.

He served with the Massachusetts National Guard for a number of years.

Following his April, 1966 marriage to Galway native Philomena M. Heaney at Saint Mary's Church, the couple made Waltham their home before moving to Billerica in 1991. In 2016 they moved to Dracut.

They enjoyed fifty-six happy years together before Philomena's death in August, 2022.

He leaves his children, William Coombs (Iraida O' Callaghan) of Englewood, New Jersey, Lisa Greene El-Hachem (Roger) of Farmington, Connecticut, and Karen Weeks (John) of Billerica; his grandchildren, Jessica and Jillian Weeks, Olivia Ketchian-Coombs, and Camilla El-Hachem.

Jim was also the grandfather of the late beloved Ava El-Hachem and brother of the late William Coombs.

James was an avid music lover, and his treasured vinyl collection-featuring legends like Fats Domino and Elvis Presley-spoke volumes about his passion. A lifelong and devoted Red Sox fan, James proudly passed on that love to his son, Bill, bringing him to countless games at Fenway Park and creating cherished memories that lasted a lifetime.

To James, family was everything. Summer vacations were often spent at Walden Pond, Lake Cochituate, and Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. In later years, he found joy traveling with his grandchildren to Disney World and sharing a special getaway to Bermuda with his beloved wife, Philomena.

James brought laughter, music, and love to everyone around him. His warmth and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him, and for that, we will be forever grateful.

Family and friends will honor and remember Jim's life by gathering for an Afternoon Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Sunday, July 20th from 2 to 5 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Monday morning before leaving in procession to Sacred Heart Church, 311 River Street, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham.