James R. Irwin of Quincy, formerly of Milton, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with serious health issues.
Jimmy’s strength and quiet courage in the face of illness were an example to us all. When his only treatment option and declining health no longer provided a meaningful quality of life, he chose to spend his final days in comfort.
He is survived by his wife, Melissa, and his son, John (Jack), of Quincy; his father, Richard Irwin, of Dedham; his sister Christine Kerrissey, and her husband Todd, of Weymouth; and his sister Katelyn Cidlevich, and her husband Stephen, of Milton. He was predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth (“Ann”) Irwin. He was the uncle of Kevin, Cole and Casey.
Jimmy enjoyed his 20 years with the MBTA, where his playful sense of humor earned him a reputation as a prankster - but those who knew him best remember him for his kindness, generosity and sense of humor. He formed many lasting friendships and carried with him countless fond memories from his time there, which he often shared with laughter and good cheer.
Before illness pulled him away from the life he had once known, Jimmy loved the simple pleasures of life: visiting Cape Cod, golfing, trips to the beach, cruising with his favorite songs playing, savoring buffalo chicken and prime rib, traveling, and, most of all, spending time with Jack and Melissa. His warmth, humor, and love for those around him will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Jimmy’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care in Quincy for their care and support throughout his long dialysis journey, and to the staff at South Shore Hospital for their compassion and care during his final days.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at The Common Market Cafe, 97 Willard Street, Quincy, from 3:00 to 7:00pm.
In place of flowers, donations to a GoFundMe have been established to help provide for his wife and son during this challenging time: https://www.gofundme.com/f/care-for-jimmys-family-in-their-time-of-loss