James R. McCleary

Jim, Jim, Jim, affectionately referred by his wife, Val McCleary for 37 years. Jim has two daughters, Kristen McCleary of Lynn, MA and Patricia McCleary of Orlando FL. He has one grandson, Cameron Zagdangross of Lynn, MA. He is also survived by his brother Roger W. McCleary and his wife Mary Beth of Salem, NH; sister Cathy J. DeSimone and her husband Edward of Malden, MA, as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents James F. and Evelyn P. (Rice) McCleary and his brother David P. McCleary.

Jim was well loved; his ability to have conversation with any and all was a gift. He had great love for ALL his family and was especially close with his Mother-in-Law Opal. He had love for animals, be it strays that needed a home to his first dog Domenic to his adored current dog Moxie, and the neighborhood wandering Basset hound Cecil and Great Dane Charlie. Jim was really supportive to Kristen when she lost her dog Rain, knowing how difficult it is to lose a loved pet. As Tricia says, Dad enjoyed being outdoors and enjoyed his small farm of goats and chickens. He loved riding his bike downtown to get coffee and the local paper. He was a great cook, loved to BBQ, would read a lot and loved yard sales and antiques. He was a partner in an antique shop in Haverhill and in his earlier years enjoyed going to Todd Farms and Brimfield to sell his antiques. Jim was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a  Teamster and a Glazer.

Jim kept his childhood friends close, they remained best of friends throughout his life. To say Vinny and Mike Casio were closer than brothers to him is an understatement. Jim was active in many organizations over the years, including the Ipswich VFW, Billerica Elks, and the Wakefield Knights of Columbus.

Family and friends may call on Saturday January 20, 2018 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. Parking available behind the Funeral Home. His Funeral Service will follow the calling hours in the Funeral Home at 2:00pm on Saturday. Burial will be private at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James R. McCleary, please visit our floral store.