James E. Vieira of Medford, MA, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the age 88. He was the cherished son of the late James J. and Gertrude (Smith) Vieira. He is survived by his sisters Laurie Vieira, Shirley Fonts, and the late Elizabeth Walker and Priscilla Lewis-Pina. James married the love of his life Joyce A. (Gonsalves) Vieira of Providence, RI, in 1971. In their 55 years of marriage, he was a devoted husband and father in raising of their two daughters Lori and Michelle. His unwavering love for his family will carry on through his daughters, Michelle’s daughter Brianna Potts, Lori’s husband Merrick Anderson and their three children Paige Anderson Davis, Haley, and Mateo Anderson, and many nieces, nephews, God children, friends, and mentees.
As a young man, James proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and remained invested in Veteran Affairs throughout his life. Prior to his retirement, James served 30 years as the Personnel Director of Human Resources for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts District Commission. He served his community and upheld many titles; having served 25 years on the Medford Retirement Board, he was recently appointed to Vice President of the Executive Board of Mass Retirees. Among remaining an active member of the Mass Association of Contributory Retirement Systems, he also served as a Commander of the American Legion- Medford Post #45, served as Grand Knight as well as the Faith Navigator for the Knights of Columbus- Medford Council #141, and maintained countless other dutiful achievements.
James was very proud of his Cape Verdean and Native American heritages, his score on the golf course, and foremost, his family. He committed himself with unyielding drive and limitless compassion, never turning his back to anyone in need. His passions for community outreach and scholasticism had a profound impact on every soul that crossed his path.
Ultimately, James, our Jimmy, was loved and respected by all; he will be remembered for the mark he’s made on the world, and in our hearts.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family in the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, MA, on Thursday, May 21, from 9AM-12PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 12PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to
https://kidneytribute.rallybound.org/JamesVieira or
https://ahatribute.funraise.org/fundraiser/jamesvieira
Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.