James David McGrath

James “Jim” David McGrath, age 84, passed away on November 16, 2024, at the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center in Boston, Massachusetts. Born in Milton, Massachusetts on August 10, 1940, he was the son of the late James and Margaret (Tierney) McGrath. 

As a child, Jim enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. Jim’s family raised cocker spaniels which inspired a lifelong love of animals. He was a hard worker from day one and took a job at Walter Baker Chocolate Factory, and later worked alongside his mother at a soda fountain. 

Jim graduated from Milton High School in 1958 and joined the Army several years later after his first marriage. He was in the reserves for a time before being drafted and serving in Vietnam. After being honorably discharged, Jim lived in Randolph and helped raise his two beloved children, Douglas and Kimberly. Jim joined the Local 67 Carpenter’s Union where he learned a multitude of skills and proved himself to be a very talented handyman. 

In 1982 Jim met his match, Deborah, at the hospital she was working at while he was working construction. The two got talking and soon realized that they both shared many of the same interests and passions. The couple was married on September 8, 1984. 

Jim began work on their home using his prodigious skill to entirely relandscape the yard. He provided his wife with plenty of space for her flowers, while keeping an area of his own where he could grow his tomatoes and various vegetables. He worked on many projects at home using his extensive knowledge of carpentry, and was able to replace flooring, windows, and doors. Jim even refinished their entire basement. 

After retiring at age 62, Jim, who was always a bit of a homebody, enjoyed feeding the birds and chipmunks in the backyard. The local wildlife, his bunnies, and 5 yorkies could always count on getting some good food and affection when Jim was around. But they were not the only ones. Jim was a fantastic cook and baker, always waking up early Thanksgiving morning to make several wonderful pies. His famous apple pie was second to none and was only rivaled by the chocolate fudge he made at Christmas. Jim could always impress his loved ones at get-togethers with his elaborately carved watermelons made to look like anything from a whale to a baby stroller depending on the occasion. Even casual meals like spaghetti or lasagna were special if Jim was in the kitchen. 

Everywhere he went, Jim’s sense of humor lightened those around him. Even in the nursing home, he could make people laugh. Once, while having x-rays taken, he told the radiology technician that he would like 2 wallet sized copies to take home. The levity and joking manner ensured he was well loved by the nurses. 

Beloved husband of Deborah E. McGrath

Loving father of Douglas McGrath and Kimberly McGrath both of Dorchester.

Cherished grandfather of Richard and Angelie McGrath and Kevin and Colleen McGrath

Brother of the late Kathleen Meagher

At the request of Jim’s family all funeral services will be held privately. Interment will take place in Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in James's name may be made to Animal Rescue League of Boston at Animal Rescue Leage of Boston c/o Development, 10 Anna’s Place, Dedham, MA 02026 or by visiting https://www.arlboston.org/

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.