East Boston community mourns the loss of James “Jim” A. Kearney
By Cary Shuman
East Boston is mourning the loss of James “Jim” A. Kearney, whose lifetime of public service had a positive impact on people in education, business and sports in the Eastie neighborhood and beyond.
Mr. Kearney, who was a housemaster at East Boston High School and dean of students at Mario Umana Academy during his distinguished career in education, died Feb. 8, 2028, at the age of 70.
Former Boston city councilor Salvatore LaMattina respectfully described Mr. Kearney as “a true son of East Boston who bled Blue and Gold.”
“Jim Kearney was the best,” said LaMattina. “He really loved the neighborhood and was very active in the community. He was well respected by the youth and was a great role model for them. He was a leader in the Chamber of Commerce. He helped at Eastie Pride Day through the years. He was just an all-around great man. Jim’s passing is a sad loss for the neighborhood.”
City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata was a student at Mario Umana School when Mr. Kearney was dean of students.
“Jim was a dedicated educator, mentor, and civic leader whose impact on East Boston will never be forgotten,” said Coletta Zapata. “I first witnessed his commitment to uplifting our youth as a student at the Mario Umana School while he was dean of students. Beyond education, he worked tirelessly through various civic organizations to serve our community. His warmth, generosity, and selflessness left a lasting mark on countless lives. On behalf of our community, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and may we honor his legacy by continuing his mission of service.”
East Boston High School Principal Phillip Brangiforte said Mr. Kearney was highly respected by his colleagues. Brangiforte recalled that when he was coaching baseball at the school, he brought Mr. Kearney on board as an assistant coach of the team.
“Jim was always supportive of the students and wanted to help them succeed in life,” said Brangiforte. “The students loved him. He was always all about the kids. I would see Jim at many events in East Boston and he was so personable and nice to everyone.”
Rep. Adrian Madaro recognized Mr. Kearney’s outstanding commitment to the community and for being a person who earned the admiration and respect of all residents in East Boston.
“Jim lived a life of service and led with kindness in every role he had,” said Madaro. “He nurtured young people no matter their circumstances, and he dedicated his life to building a community where everyone could get the support and care they needed and deserved. His legacy will live on in the generous acts of our neighbors and the generations of people he helped educate. He will be sorely missed.”
Mr. Kearney was also known for his legendary career as a high school and college football official. His elections as president of both refereeing associations accentuate the high esteem in which he was held by his fellow referees.
In 2023, the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston recognized Mr. Kearney, a former East Boston High School football captain, for his 47 years of excellence and dedication with the John Baronian Award fir Lifetime Contributions To Football.
Mr., Kearney worked hard for the benefit and advancement of East Boston student-athletes, serving as president of the East Boston Athletic Board and chairman of the Fred L. O’Brien School Committee.
Mr. Kearney also served the East Boston business community with distinction and grace. He was president of the East Boston Chamber of Commerce and volunteered his service as a member of the Columbus Day Parade Committee and the East Boston Foundation. He enjoyed his connection to friends and members of the East Boston Yacht Club.
The East Boston Chamber of Commerce said in a statement, “It is with a heavy heart that the East Boston Chamber of Commerce conveys its sincerest condolences on the passing of James Kearney, former president of the Chamber, and a man who truly embodied the spirit of community service here in East Boston.
“His decades of work in our community were evident not only in the business landscape but also in education, sports, sports officiating, and many other areas. Jim’s contributions were vast, and his impact left an indelible mark on East Boston.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, as well as to the many colleagues and friends who join the Chamber in mourning his loss. Jim will be sorely missed by all. We are grateful for his tireless efforts, dedication, and the many accomplishments that have enriched our community.”
Sen. Lydia Edwards also paid tribute to Mr. Kearney’s contributions to East Boston.
“Jim’s passing is a massive loss to the community,” said Edwards. “His institutional and historical knowledge of Eastie cannot be replaced. I would often seek advice and consent from Jim. May he rest in eternal piece.”
Steve Haley, director of sales at Hilton Garden Inn, East Boston, said, “Jim was a great friend to the hotel and to the community. As a teacher and administrator in the Boston schools, he guided a lot of kids in the right direction. He was always there for the kids. Jim hosted many of his functions here since we opened in East Boston. He assisted East Boston residents in getting jobs at the hotel. He will be missed.”