Obituary
Guest Book
James F. McGovern Jr. of Reading passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 9th, 2024 at his home. He is 77 years of age.
Born on Friday, February 28, 1947 in Waltham, James is the loving son of the late James F. McGovern and Margaret (Farquharson) McGovern. James is a warm, kind, loyal and gentle son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend who will be deeply missed.
James will be remembered for his love of baseball and having been a diehard Red Sox fan. He also loved golf, and traveling – especially family vacations to York Beach, ME and Manomet, MA. He loved spending time with his “Rat Pack” on Saturday afternoons watching any and all New England sports. He was very proud of his service in the United States Airforce having been stationed in Germany from 1965-1969.
James is the beloved father of Julie Hartshorn and her fiancé Joseph Gallarelli and Jay McGovern. The cherished grandfather of Danny, Lexi, J.J. and Jackson, he is the dear brother of Bobby McGovern and his wife MaryAnn, the late Peg O’Connor and her surviving husband Michael and the late Michael McGovern. James is also lovingly survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with James’ Family on Friday, November 15th from 4-7pm in the Doherty – Barile Family Funeral Home, 11 Linden Street READING. Parking attendants and elevator are available.
A Funeral Service Celebrating James’ Eternal Life will be held on Saturday, November 16th at 10:00 am in the Funeral Home. Interment Wood End Cemetery, Reading.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in James’ memory to Disabled American Veterans by referring to the link below.
For more information, www.facebook.com/BarileFamilyFuneralHome
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
11 Linden Street, Reading, MA 01867

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more