James J. “Killer” Kilroy, Jr. age 91, of West Roxbury, formerly Roslindale.
Beloved husband of Irene Kilroy for 59 years, father of Katie Kilroy of West Roxbury and Dennis, Peg Myers and her husband Jim of Yarmouthport, Sheila Farragher and her husband Patrick of Mansfield, grandfather of Jay and Erin of Yarmouthport, Sean and Matthew of Mansfield. Brother of John and his wife Mary of Franklin and Venice Beach, Florida and his sister Mary of Roslindale. He was predeceased by brothers Billy and Peter. Jim is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Jim was a lifelong Boston resident. He graduated from Mission High School where he played football and baseball. Much to his chagrin, Mission stopped their hockey program just as he arrived his freshman year. Jim spent much of his youth playing sports with his friends at Sowden’s Bowl in Roslindale. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed playing hockey well into his 60’s in the Canton Men’s Hockey League and golf into his 80’s with his friend Al Celata. A Boston College Football season ticket holder for over 30 years, sports and tailgating with friends were his favorite combination. With the BC Football crew, Jim and Irene traveled to the 1985 Cotton Bowl and to Ireland for the BC vs. Army game. He also enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren from the stands at the fields, swimming pool and hockey rink. A lover of the team game, he could be heard shouting “pass the puck,” as he loved a beautiful pass over a goal any day.
Jim worked for the Polaroid Corporation in Waltham for over 30 years. He was a founding member of the Polaroid “Cement Heads”, of which he has very proud. He also served as a Board Member and President of the Polaroid Retiree’s Association.
Jim was a faith filled man and true disciple of Jesus. An active member of Holy Name Parish, he was a past President of the Holy Name Band Association, sang with the Sunday Mass Folk Group, served as a Eucharistic Minister, a member of the Pre-Cana Marriage Preparation team and The Saint Vincent de Paul Society.
He was easily recognized around town, by his famous red plaid hat.
Jim entered into eternal peace on July 19, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.
Funeral from the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre Street, West Roxbury on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 9am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Name Church at 10 o’clock. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, July 23rd from 3:00-7:00pm. Burial at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Name Church, 1689 Centre St. West Roxbury, MA 02132.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.gormleyfuneral.com