James L. Hickey

Hickey, James Leo, age 85 of West Roxbury, passed away October 22, 2021. Born in Boston, February 12, 1936.  Jim was the devoted husband of the late Claire Ryan Hickey and the beloved dad of Maureen Hickey and her husband Jeremy Kamm of Roslindale and Kathleen Hickey and her husband Alfonso Pruneda Fuentes of West Roxbury.  For nearly five decades, Jim drew strength from his loving relationship with his wife, Claire, and together they leave a legacy of love, generosity, and kindness. Jim was the second son of the late William J. and Catherine A. Hickey. He was a cherished brother to the late William J. Hickey, Jr., Patricia A. Leger, Kathleen D. Hickey, and Mary Ellen Sullivan. Jim was an adoring Papa to Colin, Nora, Claire, and Rafael, and he delighted in playing, reading, and spending time with them.  A loving uncle to many nieces and nephews, especially his nephew James L. Hickey, with whom he had a wonderful relationship. Jim enjoyed supporting and celebrating his family members, and especially his daughters, through all of life’s experiences. Jim graduated from Boston College High School, and he earned degrees from St. John’s Seminary and Boston University.  He spent about a decade as a priest, during which time he met lifelong friends, built community, and supported people in need.  After leaving the ministry, Jim served as Dean of Student Affairs at Boston University, a role that allowed him to blend his interest in advising students and his leadership skills.  During the final two decades of Jim’s work life, he transitioned to roles in public service as Chief Administrative Officer and later Commissioner of Public Works for the City of Newton.  After retirement, Jim and Claire spent fifteen wonderful years enjoying sunshine and great friends on St. Croix, the island they visited on their honeymoon. Jim was naturally charismatic, and he fostered strong, positive relationships throughout his life.  He greeted life with a bright smile, a commitment to justice, and a desire to help others.  He was equally enthusiastic singing songs at a party, telling a story at a family meal, or engaging in civic initiatives.  He enjoyed creating warm and inviting spaces to gather with family and friends, so he took great pride in maintaining his home and gardens. Jim had a deep respect for the natural world; in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Nature Conservancy (www.nature.org). Funeral from the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury on Friday November 5, at 9:30 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. John Chrysostom Church, 4750 Washington Street, West Roxbury on Friday, at 10am.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hour in the funeral home Friday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 am. Interment Forest Hills Cemetery. www.lawlerfuneralhome.com            

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