GEORGETOWN – James Michael Cleary, 85, passed away Thursday, December 5th, 2024.
James was born on November 7, 1939, in Lawrence, Massachusetts. He was the son of the late Michael J. and Margaret (Twomey) Cleary and grew up in Andover, Massachusetts.
He was a graduate of Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine (Doctor of Dental Surgery), Saint Mary’s University (Bachelor of Arts), Salem State College (Master of Arts) and Central Catholic High School.
James operated his dental practice in Tewksbury, MA for 40 years and was a lifelong member of the Massachusetts Dental Society.
A man of many extraordinary talents and passions, James was an artist and member of the Newburyport Art Association, a member of the Ipswich Bay Yacht Club, a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and a member of the American Historical Association. For many years he raised purebred Charolais cattle and was the Assistant Animal Inspector for the Town of Georgetown. He and his scathing wit will be lovingly remembered by many friends and relatives.
James is survived by two daughters, Siobhan P. Cleary (Ivan Murphy) of Nova Scotia and Margaret T. Lewis (Timothy Lewis) of New Hampshire; two grandchildren, Aelyn Cleary Murphy and Nolan Francis James Murphy; sister Mary Josephine Curley of Pittsburgh; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Maureen M. Cleary; and brothers Cornelius A. Cleary and Lawrence T. Cleary.
ARRANGEMENTS: A private ceremony for relatives will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, expression of sympathy may be made in James’ memory to the charity of one’s choice or to the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society, 63 Elm Street, Salisbury, MA 01952.
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