Obituary: James ‘Jim’ F. Cleary Sr., 78, of Stratford

Information via Pistey Funeral Home

James “Jim” F. Cleary Sr., 78, of Stratford, beloved husband of Linda Cleary, passed away peacefully at the VA Hospital on March 2, 2019 with his loving family by his side. Jim was born on April 22, 1940 in Scranton, PA and was the son of the late Joseph and Frances (Nosal) Cleary.

He grew up in Stratford and served in the U.S. Army in the 101st Airborne Division as an elite 502 pathfinder paratrooper. He worked as a vet assistant and for the Town of Stratford as a firefighter. Jim was an avid fisherman, golfer, and loved playing the guitar. Jim was also a lifetime member of Pequonnock Yacht Club. Jim will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

In addition to his beloved wife, Linda, Jim is survived by his children, Steve Cleary and wife Donna of Stratford and David Cleary of Stratford; loving grandchildren Steven, Joseph, Amber, and Lena Cleary; brother John “J” Cleary of Florida; sister Mary (Cleary) Kocsis and husband Louis of Easton; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved pet companion, Buddy. Jim was also predeceased by his sons, James F. Cleary, Jr. and Michael J. Cleary.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff at the VA Hospital for their compassion, dedication, and expertise for their outstanding level of care given to Jim.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, PO Box 1893, Memphis TN, 38101-9550.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Pistey Funeral Home here.