John “Jackie” Breen, 73, of Norwood, MA, passed away unexpectedly on November 5, 2025 with Cheryl, the love of his life, by his side.
Jackie, the third of six children (two brothers and three sisters), spent his early years in Jamaica Plain before moving to West Roxbury at age 11. While attending Brighton High, he found his calling in mechanics, a passion he turned into a career as a skilled mechanic at McNamara's in Allston. During this period, he also proudly served in the National Guard.
Later, Jackie and his brother, Frankie, merged their talents to open 3B’s Auto Body in Hyde Park. As business partners, Jackie handled the mechanics while Frankie managed the body work. But their bond extended far beyond business; Jackie and Frankie were not only brothers but best friends, their bond was one that not everyone is lucky enough to have in a lifetime. They shared laughter, support, and a connection built on trust, loyalty and love.
Jackie later joined the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), becoming a dedicated Electrical Foreman. His commitment and mastery of his field quickly gained him the respect and admiration of his peers at the "T" until his retirement.
Jackie was the ultimate caretaker, always there for his parents and family. There was nothing he couldn’t fix; plumbing, electrical, carpentry, he did it all, never hesitating to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His kindness and selflessness extended far beyond family; Jackie was the kind of man who would drop everything to help a friend or stranger alike.
Becoming “Papa” was one of Jackie’s greatest joys. His grandchildren filled his days with laughter, purpose, and love. Whether sharing a story, offering advice, or cracking a joke, Jackie’s warmth was ever-present. His friendships were another cornerstone of his life, each one treasured, each one filled with countless memories, laughter, and love.
Jackie is survived by his devoted wife Cheryl (Moshiek); her children, Ryan and his wife Alex (McKernan), Rory and her husband Neal (McCusker), and Rose (McKernan) and fiancé Doug (Stein); and his beloved, hopelessly spoiled, and genuinely treasured grandchildren Ellie, Ruby, Mia, Shay, Paul, Jayden, Kane, and Callan.
Predeceased by his parents; Daniel J. Breen and Hughina M. Breen. He is also survived by his siblings: Daniel Breen and his wife Claire of Florida; Donna and her husband Kevin Ryan of Easton; Francis Breen and his wife Deborah of Roslindale; Anne and her husband John MacKenzie of Norfolk; and Claire and her husband Michael Campo of Mansfield. Jackie will be lovingly remembered by his nine nieces and nephews.
Jackie will be remembered for his unwavering generosity, his deep love for family and friends, and his ability to make everyone around him feel cared for and at home. His presence will be missed beyond measure, but his spirit, kindness, and laughter will live on in all who knew him.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, November 13th from 3-7 p.m. at the William J. Gormley Funeral Home 2055 Centre St. WEST ROXBURY. Funeral from the funeral home on Friday, November 14th at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Theresa of Avila Church, 2078 Centre St. West Roxbury at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jackie’s memory to:
The New England Center for Children
Attn: Development
33 Turnpike Road
Southborough, MA 01772-2108
or online at www.necc.org/give. www.necc.org/give/
For guestbook gormleyfuneral.com