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J.J. Granger Obituary
WORCESTER - James "J.J." Granger, 18, beloved son of James P. and Kathleen A. (Finlay) Granger, died Wednesday, October 29, 2014.
In addition to his parents, J.J. leaves his brother Timothy E. Granger, his grandmothers Phyllis Finlay and Barbara Granger, all of Worcester; many aunts, uncles and cousins, and his girlfriend, Jackee Banfill.
J.J. was born in Worcester. He attended Heard Street Discovery Academy, Sullivan Middle School and graduated from Holy Name High School in May.
J.J. loved sports, especially baseball and football. He played baseball in the Ty Cobb Little League and Southside Babe Ruth League.
Football was J.J.'s true passion. Beginning at age six, he committed himself to be the best football player he could be. He played several years with the Worcester Vikings in the Pop Warner League and four years at Holy Name. He loved every aspect of the game and enjoyed all the practices and preparation. He was happiest on the field among his many friends all working together towards a common goal. He was challenged by the competition and cherished the loyalty and camaraderie that football fosters.
When J.J. wasn't playing football, he was watching football. Whether it was watching his brother at St. John's and WPI or attending many Patriot games at Gillette Stadium, J.J. loved being at the game.
J.J. was also very good at repairing anything that might break and was especially adept with duct tape and super glue. He also enjoyed fishing in Maine, sitting around the camp fire listening to the tall tales and fireworks for any occasion.
J.J. will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
Calling hours are Monday, November 3, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester.
The funeral will be on Tuesday, November 4, from the funeral home with a Mass at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main St., Worcester. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the J.J Granger Memorial Football Scholarship Fund at Holy Name Central Catholic High School, 144 Granite St., Worcester 01604.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for J.J. Granger
Sponsored by anonymous.
christine price
October 29, 2016
Hi JJ today is two years wow i wish you were here maybe things would be different i do know one thing you are truly loved and missed may you look down and hug mom and dad today and your brother too xoxo 33
chris price
November 27, 2014
Jj you are here with us in heaven i want to wish you a happy thanksgiving may you send mom and dad and your brother a hug on this day
Stephanie Winn
November 14, 2014
I an so sorry....I just found out about J.J today and my heart is broken. He is so missed and I will always remember the fun times we had together at the Patriots games. Rest in the sweetest peace.
David Winn
November 14, 2014
Jim & Kathy, I just heard this tragic news and am heart broken as our families have grown up next to each other at Pats games and our hearts go out to your whole family for your loss of J.J. - our thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 14, 2014
Happy Birthday my precious boy. At 1:04 PM today we were so blessed to have you join our family. We love you and miss you so very much. Love, Mom XOXO
November 12, 2014
~We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Tozer family
Freddie
November 11, 2014
I am soo sorry for you're loss kathy. you are and were a great nurse to my mom, I remember you used to bring the boys over before football games, I cant even imagine the pain, my prays are sent to you and you're family.
November 8, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss...I will keep you all in my prayers....God Bless you
Patty (Bulak) Stevens
Richard McGinn
November 7, 2014
Kathy,very sorry for your loss.
Richard McGinn
November 7, 2014
Dear Cathy and Jim we are so sorry for
the loss of your son J.J. We will keep him in prayer and believe that he will be there in spirit with you always. Virginia(Honey) and Richard Gagnon
November 6, 2014
GOD BLESS THE GRANGER FAMILY OUR PRAYERS AND BLESSINGS GO OUT TO YOU THE KATINAS FAMILY.
The Fenton family
November 6, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I umpired J.J.'s baseball games many times over the past few years and although I didn't know him well I can say he was a pleasure to have on the field. He always said hello and was always a fine example of good sportsmanship. We will keep you in our prayers.
Scott and Judy Macey
November 5, 2014
We are so sad to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time
November 5, 2014
Dear Kathy & Jim with heart felt sorrow we will keep J.J. and your family in our prayers for ever. Denise White-Duff
November 5, 2014
To my precious boy,
As I sit here the day after we laid you to rest, I am trying to find the perfect words for you. Since the day you were born you brought us such joy and happiness. There are so many memories. I miss our talks and watching those silly shows. I miss making you bagels and scrambled eggs. I just miss you. I want you to know when you got sick it was so hard to watch you suffer and as I couldn't fix you it was even harder. If I could have taken that pain away or gone through that pain instead of you, I would have. My heart is broken, I feel like I am numb and all I do is cry. I need you to give me strength. Every night before you left we would text each other and say goodnight even if you were in the other room so now I will look to the sky and say my good nights. You rest now my precious little boy.
Love, Mommy xoxo
RON & TAMMY BELIVEAU( VIKINGS FOOTBALL)
November 5, 2014
We are do deeply sorry for your loss.
Luis Soto
November 4, 2014
Granger Family,
It is with deep sadness finding out about JJ. I had the pleasure coaching him and having be my assistant coach as well. I am lost for words. JJ was an all around great human being. He will be missed.
November 4, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. - a mother
Mom of 2
November 4, 2014
As a mother I can't imagine the pain your going through. Try to seek comfort that JJ is in the arms of the good Lord. JJ will be your Guardian Angel watching over you until you meet again. God Bless Jackee and the Granger Family.
Mom of 2
November 4, 2014
As a mother I can't imagine the pain your going through as you lay your son to rest. Be at peace that he is in the arms of the good Lord. He will forever be your Angel.
November 4, 2014
Dear Jim,Kathy and Tim it is with deep sadness I write this. I am thinking of all of you at this most difficult time. May you find comfort in your memories and the love in your heart for your beautiful son J.J. Thoughts and prayer are with you all. Love The Martini Family (Vikki's sister Angela)
November 4, 2014
The heavens have received a beautiful angel. Thoughts and prayers for family and friends of JJ. Let JJ be your angel to get you all through this difficult time.
November 4, 2014
Our hearts and prayers go with all of you Granger family as you walk through these most difficult days. These are moments to know God is carrying you. Kathy, and Steve and Anna Power (HN 2014)
Pat Keenan
November 4, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers, thoughts and sympathy are with your entire family.
November 4, 2014
So sorry to hear of the loss of JJ. He will be missed. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Teri and Alexandria Wooldridge (Heard St. School Family)
Carol Tisdell
November 4, 2014
We are so very sorry for the loss of your son and brother. Steven always enjoyed having JJ on his team and John found JJ a pleasure to help coach. No words can suffice but know that all of you and JJ are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you the strength to bear this sorrow.
The Tisdell Family
Maria Hallihan
November 4, 2014
Dear Kathy, Jim and family,
We are so sorry for your loss! May God hold you and give you His peace as you grieve and heal Love,
The Hallihan Family
Wendy Kokernak
November 4, 2014
So very sorry for your loss. May GOD be with you and your family. May you fine solace in the happy memories you hold close to your hearts. Share those memories often.
November 3, 2014
Tian Toney
November 3, 2014
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
November 3, 2014
Forever in our hearts #33 on the field & #1 in our hearts. Sad to see such an amazing man go way too soon before his time. I give my condolences to the Granger/Banfill family. May God and James watch over you all and in hope that you have comfort and peace knowing he is now in a better place. Many blessings to you
Dyan (Spring), Joe, & Faith Barbieri
November 3, 2014
We are so deeply sorry for your loss, and we will be keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time...
November 3, 2014
I was saddened to hear of this young mans passing. My thoughts are with you.
A complete stranger.
November 3, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Dennis and Lorna O'Day
Holy Name Class of 2014 Mom
November 3, 2014
May God bless your broken hearts and may you know that you do not grieve alone.
Michelle & Mike Hashem
November 3, 2014
Dear Jim, Kathy & Tim,
My Sincere thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. Rest in Peace JJ.
Jo-Anne Cronin
November 3, 2014
Dear Granger Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. May JJ rest in peace and God be with you all during this time. Also, take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. -
The Benoits
November 3, 2014
So sorry for your loss. May God be with the family and friends of JJ during this difficult time. RIP James
The Benoits
November 3, 2014
So sorry for your loss. May God be with you and your family during this difficult time. RIP James.
November 3, 2014
may the love and memories of your son forever cherish in your heart and home. so very sorry for your loss.
Mrs. Diane Gyasi.
Anonymous Father of 2
November 3, 2014
Heart-breaking. Prayers for the family and friends.
Suzanne Hilli
November 3, 2014
Jim, Kathy & Tim,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
November 3, 2014
Our daughter is a Holy Name student & we are just so sorry for your loss. Please know your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Bonaventura Family
November 2, 2014
To the Granger Family,
James was such a joy to be around. He was a great friend to Pete and our entire family. We can't express how sorry we are for your lose. He will be missed by all. Anyone that knew him was better for it.
A Holy Name mom
November 2, 2014
I'm so sorry for your loss and I wish you strength and support from God and your community. JJ and your family is in my prayers.
Karen Barrows
November 2, 2014
Words can't express how sorry I am for your loss. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
November 2, 2014
Dear Kathy and Jim,
My deepest sympathy to you,
Love Barbara {Duquette} Kelleher
Ron Sherbert
November 2, 2014
J.J. was an very special person and hard worker, who I enjoyed coaching very much. Thank you for the memories J.J. The Worcester Vikings family, past, and present offer their deepest prayers to Jim and Kathy and their entire family. God Bless.
November 2, 2014
Jim, Kathy & Tim,
I am so sorry for the loss of your son.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joanne Granger
Karyn Swaney
November 2, 2014
I have no adequate words. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending lots of love.
MarkAnthony Rouse
November 2, 2014
We are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Deanna Katinas
November 2, 2014
Kathy,Jim and Tim we are so saddened by your loss. You guys are in our prayers. Wish there was something we could do to take away your pain. With love, Deanna, Rich,Travis and Richie Katinas
Jim, Jane, MJ and Riley Barron
November 2, 2014
To the Granger family-our deepest sympathy and condolences during this difficult time. Our son, Riley, played football with JJ at Holy Name and said they were "linebacker buddies". Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jim Jane MJ and Riley Barron
November 2, 2014
Our family is so sorry for your loss, our sons played football together at HN and I can't imagine what you must be going through. JJ and all of you will be in our hearts and prayers.
Kathy Orell
Cheryl Gavin
November 2, 2014
Kathy-I lost my son 6 years ago & there is nothing I can say to help you through. There is now a hole in your heart that can never be repaired. I am so very sorry! JJ knew my son and my family and was a huge help to my husband coaching. He will be missed dearly!Sending our deepest condolences.
The Gavin Family
Susan Sereti
November 2, 2014
Dear Kathy and Family,
So very sorry for your loss. Words cannot express the sadness of losing a son. God bless you and keep you in his care always.
Jackee Banfill
November 2, 2014
JJ was more than just a boyfriend to me. He helped me though many tough times. Stuck by my side through my accident and helped me learn how to walk again. Him and I had a relationship like no other. We had an amazing support system with each other. He was always there to protect me and make sure I was safe. He always told me nobody will ever love me more than he did and i believe that. I had the best boyfriend possible and I'm going to love him with all my heart forever. I knew from the beginning the Grangers were an absolutely amazing family and still are. They have treated me so well the past 5 years I could never thank them enough for everything they've done. This is a loss for all of us but I must say I deeply sorry to Kathy, Jim and Timmy.. my second family. Know he is watching down over all of us. Thank you all so much for keeping me included in with the family to go through this with all of you. I love you all so much. We need to stay strong for him<3
Mary Ann Franco
November 2, 2014
Dear Granger family,
We were saddened to hear about the death of your dear son and brother JJ. Our son Peter played pop warner football with JJ with the Worcester Vikings. Our family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers in the difficult days ahead.
Mary Ann and Paul Franco and family
Karen and Danny Avedian
November 1, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Granger Family and friends during this most difficult time. There are no words to describe the incredible sadness that we are feeling. Rest in peace J.J.
Mary Tisdell
November 1, 2014
We are so sorry about the loss of JJ. He was always a pleasant and polite young man. He will be truly missed. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Mary & Michael Tisdell
chris price
November 1, 2014
May you find peace JJ you are missed by all
November 1, 2014
Kathy and family, so very sorry for your loss, unfortunately we can never find words to help ease the pain. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Carol O'Day Erin, Molly and Connor Mackintire
November 1, 2014
Kathy and Family;
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are all in my preayers
Maura Mahoney
Ray Semidei
November 1, 2014
U know, I got into coaching for bonding time w my son and thought, maybe at the same time make a difference in another kids life while at it. Little did I know that these kids would make all of the difference in my life making them like kids of my own. While at it, I been able to interact w families like the Grangers who have been great parental examples to me. As I sit here typing this, my heart aches and my mind hasn't been clear since. As for JJ, I cannot put forth enough words to describe such a sweet young man. JJ, u made a difference to Jalen and I and we will never forget u!!! My sincere condolences to the entire Granger family!!!
LISA GENDRON
November 1, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss..
LISA + MARISSA GENDRON
Michelle Sykes
November 1, 2014
Kathy and family, My deepest sympathy to you and your family at the loss of your beloved son.
Lisa King
November 1, 2014
My prayers are with you !! I have an 18 year old and my heart broke broke for you when I saw jj s obituary . I can't imagine the pain that you must be going through . So sorry for your loss .
November 1, 2014
I remember J.J. as a beautiful curly headed, ambitious little boy. He was the same age as my cousin, Pawel, and I know how close they were as they grew up together. It breaks my heart to know I wont be seeing this lovely young man anymore. The things you take for granted, oh Lord. I wish I could have been around more because I always was thankful of how you took care of my grandfather while I was out of town. Having the patience to deal with a man in his 90s, truly showed how much of a genuine soul you are and what a beautiful person the world had no clue was awaiting them. You were a beautiful soul, and I hate that I wasn't around to thank you for everything. Godspeed my friend and thank you for everything. One day I would be honored to run around shooting super soakers at eachother like the good old days...and I would be more than happy to let you win, just like the good old days.
Angela Demake
November 1, 2014
Kathy and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of J.J. I remember hearing about all of his football adventures when we worked together. Words cannot do justice. May his memory be eternal.
Eric Burke
October 31, 2014
My deepest sympathies. May God bless you in your time of sadness. I remember J.J. & Noah running around the Viking Football field for 7 yrs. Our condolences. Keeping all of you in our thoughts & prayers! Eric, Noah , Darlene & Malachi
Deb Ducharme
October 31, 2014
Kathy and Jim, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of JJ. may he rest in peace and watch over you and Tim. Deb, Ken and Christopher Ducharme
Deb Cannalonga
October 31, 2014
Kathy and family,
Words can not express the sympathy I have for you over the loss of your son. Nothing anyone says or does can help you in this situation, but please know your family at May St are thinking of you. May he rest in peace!
Karen Ostiguy-Norton
October 31, 2014
Dear Granger family, I am very sorry for your loss. I pray he is by God's side and is giving you comfort during this difficult time. You are in my prayers.
Dennis & Melanie Tretheway
October 31, 2014
Jim, Kathy and Tim. We're so saddened to hear about JJ, he was a wonderful young man and a joy to be with. We'll treasure our memories of him. Our hearts are with you all during this time.
Kristie Grady
October 31, 2014
We might not have been close but I have great memories of growing up with him. He was always so happy and excited when around all of the family. I love you guys and I will always keep jj in my prayers.
October 31, 2014
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kathy, Scott, and Matt Barrett
A Mother
October 31, 2014
We know your pain first hand as we lost are son a short time ago. So hard, so sad. Prayers for your family on this journey that lies ahead.
Paul Richard
October 31, 2014
As with so many people who met him over time, JJ made nothing but a favorable impression. He will always occupy a special place in my memory as a most respectful young man, something he exuded from our first encounter when he was but 6 years of age and on into young adulthood.
My heartfelt condolences to your family.
October 31, 2014
Dear Kathy and Family
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I can't even imagine the pain! The thought "he is in a better place" can't even seem to reduce the brokenheartedness you feel I'm sure. But he is with God and will be out of pain forever now. God Bless you all in your times of sorrow...
Debbie & George Campbell
Paul Mills
October 31, 2014
Expressing deepest sympathy, and hoping you will find comfort in knowing the Mills family is near in thought and prayers.
Glenda Castillo
October 31, 2014
We dont always understand why awful things happen. Its hard to understand why things happen. I pray the Granger family receive comfort in their aching hearts and strength to carry on. As your co-worker as your friend I want you to know I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Kara Lawrence
October 31, 2014
Kathy and family. So sorry for the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Xoxo
October 31, 2014
and now I rest.... With our sincerest thoughts and prayers to all of you. Always,Mike and Mary Kirk Bicknell
cassie v
October 31, 2014
i cant believe that jj is really gone,he was such a special and amazing person and i am so saddened by his loss my prayers go out to his family.
Mark, Vivienne, Claudine, and Mark II Morana
October 31, 2014
Kathy, Jim and Timmy, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son and brother. You have always been helpful neighbors and an good example of a close knit family. We look forward to the day when we will all be reunited with our departed loved ones never to be separated again. May God bless you all and strengthen you until that day.
A Mom
October 31, 2014
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
The Rocheleau Family
October 31, 2014
Words cannot appropriately express the sadness we feel for your family. James was a kind and helpful friend to our daughter while HN and she will treasure those memories forever. May he rest in peace.
A great human being, forever loved
South Side Family
October 31, 2014
JJ at one of his passions
South Side Family
October 31, 2014
JJ and his baseball family
South Side Family
October 31, 2014
JJ at South Side Babe Ruth 2011
South Side Family
October 31, 2014
JJ and part of his Sport Fam 2011
South Side Family
October 31, 2014
Bryant and Cissy Brown and Family
October 31, 2014
Kathy Jim and Tim
Our hearts are with you at this difficult time. You will stay in our hearts and prayers. we will miss JJ and cherish the great memories that we all shared together.
Paul Richard
October 31, 2014
JJ left a favorable impression upon me from the time I first met him as a very young boy in our basketball program. He then matured into a respectful young man. I will remember him fondly. My heartfelt condolences to your family.
South Side Babe Ruth 2011 Family
Jose and Mikael Reyes
October 31, 2014
Our hearts go out to the Granger Fam. JJ, thank you for the memories,we'll treasure them forever. Reyes Family
Reyes Navarro Fam
October 31, 2014
Our hearts go out to the Granger Fam. We will forever keep the beautiful memories we have of JJ with our kids. May he Rest in peace.
Kelley, Chad and Cam Carlson
October 31, 2014
Kathy and Jim, I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kelley, Chad and Cam Carlson
October 31, 2014
Kathy and Jim, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
October 31, 2014
As a friend and previous classmate of James, I am deeply saddened and at a complete loss for words. For me and many others James will always be remembered as a kind hearted, funny, happy person. I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you. God gained a very special angel.
Tom, Laura and Robbie Baker
October 31, 2014
Jim, Kathy and Tim,
Laura and I are deeply saddened by the loss of your son. I can't find the words to express how I feel as your loss is incomprehensible. I only hope that you all will be surrounded by love as you grieve the loss of your beautiful son. Laura and I send you our love.
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