James F. 'Jimmy' Fagan

The two constants in Jimmy Fagan’s life throughout the majority of his sixty-four years were a can of Coke and an extra-large Dunkin Donuts coffee. Very seldom was he without one or the other.

Born on March 26, 1959 in Waltham he was a son of the late William F. ‘Frank’ and Ruth M. (Bates) Fagan. Raised in Waltham, James was named the MARC Poster Child of 1969. During 1969-1970 James made a number of appearances at functions and events where he met many local celebrities.

He spent time with then Governor Sargent, Red Sox legends Carl Yastrzemski and Ken Harrelson, and Celtics great, John Havlicek. Early years were spent playing street hockey and riding his bike and summers camping on Cape Cod in Brewster. He would also welcome road trips and traveling with his parents. James graduated from Waltham High School with the Class of 1979.

And in later years he was a die-hard New England Patriots fan, most especially when Tom Brady # 12 and #87 Rob Gronkowski were on the field. Other simple pleasures in addition to his Coke and Dunkie’s were a good movie and an excursion to the casino.

Jimmy died Wednesday, January 31, 2024 in Lahey Medical Center after an illness. He was 64.

James, Jim, Jimmy…was beloved by his friends and caretakers throughout his life with people from The Edinburg Center. Through their ‘Opportunities Program’ he was provided work and social activities that really enriched his life and as a result developed rich and deep relationships with so many…and they were both blessed!

Jimmy’s family remains forever grateful to the wonderful and caring staff (family) of The Edinburg Center and the Department of Developmental Services for their unwavering commitment to his health and well-being.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his sister, Jean M. Freedman and her late husband, David.

He leaves his sister, Janet M. Frye and her husband, Steven of Blackstone; also survived by many nieces & nephews and extended longtime friends and colleagues of The Edinburg Center.

Family and friends will honor and remember Jimmy’s life by gathering to visit on Thursday, February 8th from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street Waltham. 

A private family graveside will be held in Holyhood Cemetery, Brookline. 
 
Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Edinburg Center, 205 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA 01730 or https://www.edinburgcenter.org