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James "JR" Raftery, (Ret. Lt. BFD), March 20, 1937-July 30, 2024, 87 years old, of West Roxbury, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of the late Frances (Murphy) Raftery, devoted father of Michelle (Jessica Farnham) of Brookline, Steven (Doreen) of Humarock, David (Paula) of Milton, Colleen Jordan (Kyle) of Westwood, and Gregory (Siobhan) of Westwood, dear brother of Mary Nagle of Dedham, Francis of Sandwich, David (Barbara) of Hull, John (Moira) of Jamaica Plain, Thomas of Hull, Kae Steeves of Dedham and Eileen Boyle (James) of Dedham, loving grandfather of Parker and Sophie Farnham, Courtney Beerman, Taylor Murray, Brendan, Kyle, Julia, James, Jack, and David Raftery, Catherine, Olivia, Meghan and Sarah Jordan, Emma, Anna, and Elle Raftery, as well as four great grandchildren, Charlie and Liam Beerman and Henry and Ava Murray. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
The son of Irish immigrants, the late Michael and Julia (O'Connor), JR was born in Mission Hill, Roxbury, the fourth of 8 children. After being schooled in Boston, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 17 and was stationed in Europe, an experience that would shape the man that he would become. On his return, he married the love of his life, Franny Murphy. Together they would make their way to Dedham, MA to raise their children. JR dedicated his working life to the Boston Fire Department, rising to the rank of Lieutenant, closing out his career as an investigator in the Arson Unit, he received multiple commendations for his work.
Loving nothing more than being surrounded by his family, JR could often be found in Humarock or Englewood, FL, holding court with his ever-growing family and any and all friends. As quick with his wit as he was handy with his tools, JR never stopped entertaining or fixing any problem that should arise in the home of a family member, friend or neighbor.
Funeral from the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre St., WEST ROXBURY, on Tuesday, August 6th at 9:00am. followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Theresa of Avila Church at 10:00am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment St. Joseph Cemetery. Visiting Hours Monday, August 5th from 3:00pm to 7:00pm in the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers donations in memory of JR's late wife, Frances, may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or www.alz.org For guest book please visit www.gormleyfuneral.com