James J. Guertin's Obituary
James Joseph “Jeep” Guertin, of Bradford, MA, passed away at his home on Sunday, April 16. He was 74.
James was born on May 26, 1948, to Helen and Edward Guertin in Lawrence, MA and grew up on Haverhill Street. After James graduated from Central Catholic High School, in 1966, he pursued a degree in Education at the University of Lowell (now known as UMass-Lowell) and was awarded a diploma in 1970.
Following graduation, James worked as a teacher for many years in the Lawrence Public Schools and then was employed as an account manager for Public Consulting Group in Boston. Following a brief retirement, James again began working for LPS as an administrator. Until his death, he remained a teacher at heart and always loved and was proud of his Lawrence students.
James was predeceased by his mother Helen and father Edward. He is survived by his brothers Gerald and his wife Donna, Edward and wife Betty and their children Michael and his wife Wendy and Jeffrey and his wife Christina Guertin; Sean Guertin, Keri Ryan and her husband Michael, Thomas Guertin, Tricia and her husband John Benjamin and her husband and Kevin Guertin and his wife Lauren, in addition to a dozen great-nephews and great-nieces.
James was a passionate fan of all Boston sports teams, especially the New England Patriots. He enjoyed following Central Catholic athletics and loved to watch his nephews and nieces play in high school and college. In his later years, he was able to see his great-nephews and great-nieces compete, which brought him tremendous happiness.
In addition to his family, James loved playing 45s; and was always excited at meals or desserts from Tripoli’s, Cedar Crest; and Borelli’s. James particularly adored the beach and, during the summer months, was often spotted in a chair with a radio by the water in Salisbury or Seabrook.
James will be eternally remembered for his selfless acts of charity to his family and friends. He was a caring and compassionate man, always willing to sacrifice his time and energy if someone needed a ride or a surprise gift or advice. He remained a dedicated Catholic until his death.
James, inspired by a Marist commitment to humility and modesty, began a mentorship program with help from both the Lawrence Boys Club and Lawrence Public Schools that remains in place today. The project involved middle school boys who were entering high school and their balance of academics and athletics. James was able to ensure that the three student-athletes he worked with succeeded in school because of his promise that they also will be accountable to him. The trio remained very appreciative of James’ efforts and checked in with him regularly until the day he passed.
Additionally, James was proud that he helped many individuals through Alcoholics Anonymous during the last four decades.
Calling hours will be held at the John Breen Memorial Funeral Home Inc. 122 Amesbury St. Lawrence, MA on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, from 4:00PM to 7:00PM followed by a funeral Mass on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 10:00AM in St. Mary of the Assumption, 300 Haverhill St. Lawrence, MA. 01841.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in James’ honor to the Lawrence Boys & Girls Club, 136 Water St. Lawrence, MA, 01841 or on the website: http://www.lawrencebgc.com/index.php?/donate/ . For more information or to send an online condolence please visit our website at: www.breenfuneralhome.com.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?
