Obituary: James Devaney, formerly of Malden

The following feature-length obituary was originally published by Arthur P. Graham Funeral Home:

James E. “Jimmy” Devaney, 86 of Winchester, formerly of Malden and Dennis, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2015 surrounded by family. He was a devoted husband to Betty Devaney and the son of the late Thomas and Mary Devaney.

Jimmy was born and raised in Malden, Massachusetts where he proudly wore number fifty-seven for the Malden High School Golden Tornadoes football team. At seventeen, Jimmy forewent college to join the United States Army, serving in Japan during the occupation at the end of World War II. He worked alongside the Japanese people and came away from his service profoundly impacted by their kindness.

Once home, Jimmy met and married his lovely wife, Betty, always remembering the first time he saw her in the hallways of the Malden business school they both attended. He followed in his father-in-law’s footsteps to become a marine construction diver and soon built his own business in which he laid the foundation for many of the bridges, tunnels and subways that run through Boston today. He was a proud member of the Pile Drivers Local 56 throughout his career.

Together with Betty, they raised four children and spent many wonderful years in Malden and, later, on Cape Cod walking the beaches. Jimmy loved being with his family, building a home, watching all kinds of sports, taking care of his cats, teaching himself to develop photographs and play the piano, and indulging many more passions along the way. He particularly treasured his time out at sea sailing his beloved sailboat, the Dunwishin’. He shared many trips to Maine, Cape Cod, and the surrounding islands with all of his family, but especially with his son Tim.

Jimmy is survived by his wife Betty and children Susanne Irving and her husband Rusty, Tim Devaney and his wife Nancy, Nancy Heartquist, Michael Devaney, and Karen Devaney. He also leaves five grandchildren: Eli Irving, James Heartquist, Colette Irving, James Devaney, and Michael Devaney. He was predeceased by his grandson, the late Jason Heartquist. His family will remember him for his remarkable wit, fierce courage, and sweet open heart, and forever hold dear the image of Jimmy sailing the Dunwishin’ out of the harbor.

Private services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jimmy’s name to Courageous Sailing, Charlestown Navy Yard, One First Ave., Boston, MA 02129 Arrangements by the Graham Funeral Home, Woburn.