Whitman – James T. Shaughnessy 96 of Whitman formerly of Hingham died Thursday June 14 after a period of failing health. He was the beloved husband of the late Claire (Carew) Shaughnessy.
Born and raised in Cambridge he was the son of the late Joseph and Sara (Barker) Shaughnessy.
James was a graduate of Boston College High School, and continued his education at Boston College where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree graduating in 1937.
Before his retirement, he had been the owner and operator of Orchard Food Products of Boston.
Prior to his move to Whitman twenty four years ago he had been a longtime and active resident of Hingham. As a member of Saint Paul’s Parish he was actively involved in the building of the parish school as well as a member of the Holy Name Society, and the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Grand Knight.
As a resident of Whitman he had been a longtime and loyal communicant of the Holy Ghost Church.
James was truly a family man and his greatest joy came from the time spent either quietly with a member of his large family, or surrounded by many, at their countless family gatherings.
He is survived by his loving family Joseph Shaughnessy of Weymouth, Michael Shaughnessy and his wife Trish of Hanover, Clare Balasco and her husband Al of Whitman, Sally Wehter and her husband Richard of Hingham, and Patricia Noone and her husband John, with whom he resided, as well as 20 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his son-in-law Stephen Zulon and his daughters-in-law Alice and Susan Shaughnessy. He was the father of the late James Shaughnessy and Mary E. Zulon and great grandfather of the late Kendall Balasco. He was predeceased by his siblings William and Joseph Shaughnessy, Mary Cote’ and Catherine Rosselle.
His services will be held Tuesday June 19 at 8:15 AM from the Blanchard Funeral Chapel (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman, followed by a funeral mass at 9 AM in the Holy Ghost Church, Whitman. Burial will follow in the St. Paul’s Cemetery, Hingham. Visiting hours will be held Monday June 18 from 4-8 PM.
Donations in his name may be made to Mass Citizens For Life, Inc. 529 Main Street, STE1M9, The Schrafft Center, Boston, MA 02129-1100 or to Fathers and Brothers, Box 301, MaryKnoll, NY 10545-9989.
For online condolences and directions please visit www.blanchardfc.com.