James Patrick Flaherty

FLAHERTY

JAMES PATRICK FLAHERTY

James "Jim" Patrick Flaherty, a 50-year resident of Chevy Chase passed away peacefully on December 17, 2023; he was 85. He was the devoted husband to Nancy Raper of 33 years. A son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, Jim dedicated his life as a humble servant to his family, his church and our country.

Jim was born in Queens, New York to Marie and Patrick Flaherty, and as a kid he grew up rooting for his cherished New York Yankees. He graduated from South Scranton Catholic, where he was a star pitcher on the baseball team, then served in the United States Army. He settled in the Woodley Park neighborhood upon his return from service. While working full time he took night classes at the University of Maryland, College Park, and graduated with a degree in History. Jim had a lifelong appreciation of music, especially Jazz and Classical. A devout Catholic, Jim shared his musical talents by singing tenor in the choirs of St. Thomas the Apostle and Blessed Sacrament. Jim spent much of his free time appreciating nature, birdwatching and hiking through Cape Henlopen State Park, while in Delaware, and Rock Creek Park, when home in Chevy Chase. Through birding, he participated in many Christmas Bird Counts with friends and his oldest son, Patrick. With his younger son, William (Bill), Jim shared his passion for baseball, coaching the boys' little league teams and cheering on the Senators, Orioles and then the championship Nationals. Jim made a living as a moving and storage salesman where he came to learn the streets of DC like the back of his hand, earning the endearing nickname "Jimmy Slow Freight". He was a founding member of an informal card club in Chevy Chase that conducted monthly games for years telling tall tales and sharing family successes. Jim's loving wife, Nancy, supported him in his passions and endeavors while together caring for their loyal dogs throughout the years. Jim and Nancy enjoyed hosting friends and family at their summer home in Lewes, Delaware, especially taking their grandchildren to the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk and Funland. Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Jack. He is survived by his wife Nancy and sons Patrick (wife, Shelley) of Anchorage, AK and William (wife, Sherry) of Jamestown, RI, as well as four granddaughters, Nadine Stalnaker and Piper, Celia and Ansel Flaherty. Jim's funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 8 at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, 5949 Western Ave. NW, Washington, DC followed by a celebration of life reception. All friends and family are welcome.