James A. "Jim" Kearney

James A. "Jim" Kearney, a cherished husband, brother, uncle, and respected educator, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, at his home in Plymouth, MA, at the age of 70. Born on May 4, 1954, in Boston, MA, Jim was the beloved son of the late James A. and Jean Kearney and a guiding light to all who knew him.
Jim's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his passion for education, and his commitment to his community. He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Simpson, and his devoted siblings: Dennis Kearney and his wife Bernadette, Deborah Kearney, Michael Kearney and his partner Lisa, and Thomas Kearney and his wife Robin. Jim was also a proud faux pas to Gus, Stuart, and Finley, and a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his kindness and support.
Educated locally, Jim earned his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Massachusetts and went on to receive his Master's in Education from Cambridge College. His professional life was a testament to his belief in the power of education. Jim served as Housemaster at East Boston High School, Dean of Students at Mario Umana Academy, and Director of School Discipline at Charlestown High School. His leadership and genuine care for the students' well-being left an indelible mark on many young lives.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was an active and enthusiastic member of his community. He served as Past President of the East Boston Athletic Board and Chairman of the Fred L. O'Brien Scholarship Committee. Jim's dedication to his hometown was further demonstrated through his service as Past President of the East Boston Chamber of Commerce, his involvement in the Columbus Day Parade Committee, and his participation in the East Boston Yacht Club. As a Board Member of the East Boston Foundation, Jim worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him.
Jim was deeply passionate about football, dedicating 47 years as a high school football official and 40 years as an NCAA college football official. His leadership and commitment to the sport were evident through his service as president of the Boston Chapter of the Eastern Association of Intercollegiate Football Officials (EAIFO), the Association of New England Football Officials (ANEFO), and the Eastern Football League (EFL), where he also led the league's on-field officials. Jim's love for the game extended beyond officiating; he was a proud, long-time member of the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston, serving as its president from 2015 to 2017. His legacy of dedication, integrity, and mentorship within the football community will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of working or playing alongside him.
Those who knew Jim describe him as kind, friendly, and selfless. He was a man who always put others before himself and sought to make a positive impact wherever he went. His warm smile and generous spirit will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him.
Jim's legacy is one of love, service, and dedication. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a man who was not only a pillar in his community but also a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, both in the hallways of the schools where he worked and in the community he loved so dearly.
As we bid farewell to James A. "Jim" Kearney, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey filled with purpose, and a heart that knew no bounds in its capacity to care for others. Jim's story is one of unwavering commitment to making the world a better place-one student, one colleague, one community member at a time.
Family and friends will honor Jim's life by gathering at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home 971 Saratoga St., East Boston on Sunday February 16th from 2:00PM to 6:00PM and again on Monday morning at 9:30AM before leaving in funeral procession to Sacred Heart Church Brooks St., East Boston for an 11:00AM funeral mass in celebration of Jim's life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the East Boston Athletic Board 20 Thurston St., East Boston.
Rest in peace, Jim. Your legacy of kindness, friendship, and selflessness will continue to inspire and guide us. You have left an indelible mark on this world, and for that, we are eternally grateful.