James “Jim” P. Mahoney died peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025. He was 84 years old. Jim lived a life defined by dedication, kindness, humor and quiet strength.
James was born in Boston and raised in Dedham Massachusetts. After graduating high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army, a time that helped shape the discipline and integrity he carried throughout his life.
Following his service in the Army, he built a career in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) industry – first as a skilled technician and later as a passionate educator. He spent many years teaching the trade to vocational high school and post-graduate students, always eager to pass along both technical knowledge and life lessons to the next generation. He believed in working hard, doing things the right way, and always showing up for others.
Outside of work, Jim had a true zest for life. He was an avid skier, a passion he passed along to his wife and children. He enjoyed so many years at his ski house in Twin Mountain NH, which shared with his closest friends. He would ski at Cannon Mountain, no matter what the weather or the ski conditions. He was also fortunate enough to have gone on many ski trips out west and to Europe with his wife and ski buddies. Additionally, Jim was an avid golfer and never missed an opportunity to get out on the course. Once he retired from teaching, his love of the game brought him to the Villages, Florida when he became a snowbird and flew south for the winter for many years. But of all the places he had been, the one place he felt truly happy and where all his troubles went away was on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire. In 1971 he bought a small cottage there, where he would spend weekends and vacations turning it into a home that his family would want to keep coming for years to come. It was truly his happy place.
Jim was always up for sharing great story-usually told with just the right amount of flair, humor, and heart. Those who knew him will remember his generosity, his wit, and the easy way he made people feel at home. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
James is survived by his loving wife of 59 years - Anne, son Paul Mahoney and daughter-in-law Sandra, son Dennis Mahoney and son-in-law John, daughter Joanne Mahoney, his granddaughter Amanda Mikyska, brother Walter Mahoney, and many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High St, Dedham on Thursday, July 24 from 4:00–7:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 25 in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Dedham at 10:00am (accessible parking in rear). Interment private. A celebration of Jim’s life will follow the Mass at The Chateau Restaurant, 404 Boston-Providence Turnpike, Norwood MA. Relatives and friends kindly invited.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in James Mahoney’s memory to SkillsUSA (f/k/a Vocational Industrial Clubs of America – VICA) at Donate | SkillsUSA