James M. McDonough

James M. McDonough, born on January 1, 1950, in Quincy, Massachusetts, passed away on October 6, 2025, leaving a legacy woven with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. Known affectionately as Jim, he was the first New Year’s baby on the South Shore, marking his entrance into this world with a promise of warmth and generosity that would define his life.

Jim grew up in Houghs Neck, a community that held an irreplaceable place in his heart, nurturing his spirit and shaping his character. In this idyllic setting, he forged eternal bonds with his siblings: Rita Perry, Carol Lee Wilson, Donna Dwyer, Nancy Carlson and Bob McDonough, creating friendships that flourished through the years. Jim’s family was ever-present in his life. A loving brother-in-law to Jack and Debbie Shea of Hanover, Alisa McDonough of Quincy, and Michael Dwyer from Plymouth, Jim's familial connections cultivated a sense of belonging and camaraderie that resonated throughout his journey.

In pursuit of knowledge, Jim began his education at Massasoit Community College before continuing on to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a degree in business. The journey did not end there; he further refined his expertise at Babson College, obtaining an MBA that would lay a robust foundation for a prosperous career.

Jim embarked on his professional journey with Howard Johnson's, but it was his long tenure at Ocean Spray, spanning 27 years, that truly defined his vocation. With an infectious passion for his work, Jim traversed the globe, forging friendships that transcended borders. His innate charm and warm spirit made him a beloved figure, turning mere colleagues into lifelong friends, bonds that he cherished dearly.

At the age of sixteen, Jim found his soulmate, Theresa, and the two embarked on a remarkable journey of love that lasted a lifetime. Their partnership was built on a solid foundation of loyalty and shared memories, echoing both the joys and challenges of life. Together, they raised a remarkable family in Hingham, nurturing their four children—Jim and his wife Ally, Mike and his wife Cara, Jeff and his wife Jen, and Ashley and her husband Sean—imbuing each moment with creativity, encouragement, and unconditional love.

Jim found immeasurable joy in his ten grandchildren—Harper, Jackson, Liam, Madigan, Grace, Donovan, Owen, Hailey, Brooke, and Melody (who fondly referred to him as Bubba)—who illuminated his life with their laughter and antics. A devoted grandfather, his pride was evident, and he cherished every precious moment spent nurturing their individuality while crafting memories that would reside in their hearts forever. He also greatly loved all of his nieces and nephews.

As a man who understood the beauty in life’s simple pleasures, Jim reveled in golf and travel. Yet, nothing delighted him more than sharing time with his family, each gathering becoming a treasured memory. Deeply attuned to the needs of those he loved, Jim was known for his affectionate gestures: wrapping family and friends alike in warmth, not just through blankets or sweaters, but through the comforting embrace and his love—a love that enveloped all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In his passing, James M. McDonough leaves behind a legacy marked by kindness and strength. His heart, as warm as the sunlit days he cherished, will forever echo in the lives he touched, reminding us all to value connection, cherish family, and embrace the joy found in every moment.