CALLAHAN

James E. “Jim” Callahan, 81, of Norwood, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Beverly. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Melissa and her husband Marc of Norfolk, and Meghan and her husband Dilermando of Foxboro. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Luca, Nico, Mila, and Tessa, who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Christine Weston and Maryellen Uva, along with his nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his brother, Jeff.

Jim grew up in Jamaica Plain and later settled in Norwood, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and adventure. He was a proud graduate of Catholic Memorial High School. He was a millwright by trade and worked for Westinghouse and General Electric before retiring with O’Connor, a career that took him all over the country. Whenever possible, Jim made those work trips family adventures, bringing his loved ones along to explore new places and create memories that will be cherished forever.

Jim also spent meaningful time in Delray Beach, Florida, enjoying the warmth, the slower pace of life, and time near the water. A lifetime member of the Port Norfolk Yacht Club, Jim’s love of boating was deeply rooted in family tradition. His father was also a lifelong member of the yacht club, and Jim and Beverly spent many summers on the boat with his parents, sharing special moments that became treasured family memories. Jim later continued that tradition, vacationing by boat to many places with family and friends. Summer weeks in Green Harbor with his family held a special place in his heart. He also had a love for motorcycles and proudly rode with the Old Man Bike Club, enjoying the camaraderie and the open road.

Jim was a devoted fan of the New England Patriots and rarely missed a Sunday game, often watching with friends at the yacht club. He had a deep appreciation for music and theater and especially loved The Phantom of the Opera and Cats. Later in life, Jim embraced music in a new way, learning to play the bass guitar and becoming part of the Neponset River Band, a pursuit that brought him great laughter and joy.

Above all else, Jim’s greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and took great pride in watching his grandson play football. His family was the center of his world.

Jim will be remembered for his generous heart, adventurous spirit, love of tradition, and the deep devotion he had to his family and friends.

Funeral and visiting services provided by The Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in St. Denis Church, 157 Washington St. Westwood. Interment Mt. Benedict Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Jim’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.