John J. Curran Sr., a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully on December 23rd, surrounded by the love and presence of his devoted family, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 94 years old.
John was the cherished husband of the late Paulina F. Curran, with whom he shared a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and unwavering devotion. Born to the late Timothy and Mary (Mannin) Curran, John grew up in Dorchester, MA, where he attended school and began building the strong work ethic and gentle spirit that would define his life.
He was the loving father of Kimberly Curran and her late husband Amar Khelifi, Tracy Smith and her husband Robert Smith, Michelle Curran, John Curran II and his wife Karen, and his youngest daughter, Irene Curran, who recently passed away. His love for his children was deep and constant, and he carried each of them in his heart throughout his long life.
John was a devoted brother to Mary McLellan, Helena Griffin, the late Timothy and his wife Kay Curran, the recently passed Maurice and his late wife Mary Curran, the late Margaret and her late husband Walter Miller, and the late Theresa and her late husband Gene Schneider. Family was the foundation of his world, and he treasured every bond.
He was the proud and adoring “Grampy” to Briana, Shauna, and Marissa Curran, who brought him endless joy. He also leaves behind his two beloved fur babies, Bella and his loyal “nurse,” Suzieq, who never left his side.
John’s life was one of service, dedication, and quiet strength. He began working at the Hotel Mangor as a busboy before becoming a salad chef, and in May of 1952, he chose to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served honorably until 1956.
A beautiful love story began when John and Paulina met at a wedding—she caught the bouquet, and he caught the garter. From that moment, their lives intertwined. They married, built their first home in Dorchester, and as their family grew, they settled in Melrose. Together, they were deeply involved in the Church of the Incarnation, organizing dances, hosting coffee and donuts after Mass, and serving as lectors' side by side. Their partnership was one of faith, laughter, and shared purpose.
John spent many years working in the electrical supply business across Boston, Medford, Woburn, Salem, NH, and Malden, until his early retirement in 1991. Never one to sit still, he later worked part-time as a deli clerk at Stop & Shop in Saugus, where he remained until age 88. He truly loved interacting with people—so much so that customers would wait patiently just to be served by him. His kindness, humor, and gentle way made him unforgettable.
John lived a long, meaningful life filled with love, service, and connection. He will be remembered for his warm smile, his steady presence, and the deep love he held for his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial Celebrating John's life in the Incarnation Church, 429 Upham Street, Melrose on Tuesday December 30th at 11:30am. Visitation will be held at the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main Street, Malden on Tuesday from 9:00am-11:00am prior to the Mass. interment will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Cancer Society at https://www.cancer.org or a Charity that means something to you.