James Donahue Chadwick

James Donahue Chadwick, of Dracut, passed away unexpectedly, on April 22, 2020.  Born in Lowell on May 21, 1998, he was the son of Michael and Maura (O’Neil) Chadwick. James spent his life in Dracut, attending the Immaculate Conception School in Lowell, before transferring to Dracut Schools.  He ended his education at the Greater Lowell Technical High School.  While at Greater Lowell he was able to take advantage of the co-op program, which he thoroughly enjoyed, since it only improved upon his plumbing skills.  He was happily involved in Habitat for Humanity builds through the plumbing department as well.  He graduated in June of 2017 and since he was already gainfully employed, he went right to work, and had goals of becoming a licensed Master Plumber.  James spent most of his summers in East Falmouth at his “tiny beach house”, a place that he loved and made so many memories with his summer friends.  When he was not in East Falmouth, he was in Yarmouth Port, with his maternal grandparents making memories at the pond with his cousins.  James loved his family, his friends, his girlfriend, and above all he loved life.  His family and friends are so sad that his life was cut too short. 

James’ favorite past times were fishing and riding his dirt bike.  He learned at an early age that fishing was a great hobby and it was something he did since he was 3 years old with his Grandfather, Ralph DelMonico, who predeceased him in 2018. One of the comforting thoughts that his family and friends are holding onto is that James will be laid to rest next to his beloved Papa at Saint Francis Cemetery in Walpole.

James was proud of his Irish heritage, and it was his dream to go to Ireland with his family someday with the wish of seeing some of his friends in Ireland that he spent summers with on Cape Cod. He was also proud of his Italian heritage and his only regret in his 21 years of life was not getting there with his Papa.  James was very social and never turned down an invitation to be with his friends or family.  James will be remembered for so many good qualities that he had, but mostly for his big heart, sense of humor, love for adventure, and a willingness to always help a friend in need.  It gives his family comfort knowing that the people James considered his friends, loved him like a brother.

Beloved son of Michael and Maura Chadwick of Dracut.  Loving brother to Catherine Chadwick of Dracut, and Miranda Meehan of East Falmouth.  Cherished grandson of Donna DelMonico of Yarmouth Port, and Ted and Maureen Chadwick of Dracut. Adoring Nephew to Daniel and Michelle Chadwick of Windham NH, Julie Chadwick of Los Angeles CA, Ralph and Teresa DelMonico of North Scituate RI, Barbara Donahue of Chatham, MA, and Kevin and Heidi Plamondon of Greenville RI.  Loving cousin to Matthew, Michael, and Robbie DelMonico, and Emma and Ellie Chadwick.  Devoted boyfriend to Mackenzi Tauer of Dracut.  

As a result of the ongoing health crisis in the world and with our genuine concern for the well-being of all involved, James’s family has decided that his funeral services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to Habitat for Humanity www.habitat.org

James’ family would like to thank Jay and Jim Delaney of the James H. Delaney and Son Funeral Home in Walpole, for helping us during this difficult time. They would also like to thank all their friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and former teachers that have extended condolences, and shared memories and pictures, it has given them great comfort to hear how much love there is in this world for James. And when the family is allowed, they will gather in memory of their beloved and sorely missed son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin.

If family and friends wish to view James' tribute video, please email maura.chadwick@gmail.com