James Sweeney

1974 - 2025

James Jonathan Sweeney

October 13, 1974 ~ July 17, 2025

In Loving Memory

Portland, OR-James Jonathan "JJ" Sweeney passed away unexpectedly in his home on July 17, 2025. He was 50 years old.

James was born on October 13, 1974, in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, to Ardath and Jeff Sweeney. His family later moved to Utah, where he graduated from Brighton High School. After graduation, James set out for Portland, Oregon, with his best friend Jason Robison.

In Portland, James worked as a bike messenger before continuing his education. He went on to earn a BS in Social Work from Portland State University. He cared most about helping people who didn't have a place to call home, and much of his work was spent supporting the homeless community. James later worked in security, and most recently in direct care, where he helped members of the disabled community and continued to dedicate himself to the well-being of others.

James married and became the proud father of two daughters, River and Dreya, whom he loved with all his heart. He also filled his home with animals, including cats, dogs, chickens, and goats, and made sure they were well cared for. Woodworking brought him joy, and he built tables, furniture, and even a shed for his goats to keep them warm and dry in rainy weather.

James was kind to everyone he met, and he cared deeply about people. He had beautiful eyes, a gentle soul, and a sense of humor that made him easy to love.

He is survived by his daughters River and Dreya, his parents Ardath and Jeff, his sister Miriam, his brother Matthew, his former wife Lynn Fairweather, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

JJ will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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