A loving man who enjoyed winters in Florida and getting a laugh out of someone
MELROSE — James E. Fitzgerald, long time Melrose resident, passed away on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at a Wakefield healthcare facility. He was 87 years old.
Born on November 16, 1935 in Boston, Jim was one of four children of the late James E. and Elsie (née Smith) Fitzgerald.
Jim was a lovable and loving man. He adored his family, enjoyed taking rides to Newburyport, spending winters in Florida, playing Keno and cards with family and friends, watching Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy, and getting a laugh out of someone with his witty sense of humor.
Jim proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for over 30 years and was a long-time member of the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts.
Faith was also a big part of Jim’s life. He was an active member of Most Blessed Sacrament Parish in Wakefield where he attended mass regularly and served as an usher for many years.
Jim’s love, sense of humor, and presence will be missed by all.
James was the beloved husband of the late Patricia A. (Wolsey) Fitzgerald with whom he shared 36 years of marriage. Devoted father of James W. Fitzgerald of Melrose. Loving brother of Elsie (the late John) Cardillo of Naples, Fla., and the late Richard (the late Wendy) Fitzgerald and Geraldine Gleisberg. Cherished grandfather of Jillian (Sean) O’Brien of S. Boston and Melanie (Robert) Arsenault of Peabody. Brother-in-law of Janet (the late Michael) Davenport of Medford, dear friend of the late Ruth Coppola, and survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather in honor of Jim’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, Nov. 22 from 5-7 p.m., and again on Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. before leaving in procession to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield for his Funeral Mass celebrated at 10am. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
Contributions in memory of Jim may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA. 02452.
For online tribute, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com. 
