James J Kerrigan entered into the eternal life of the resurrected Jesus Christ February 22. A man who was strong of commitment, faith and family. Son of Patrick and Anna Harkins Kerrigan, Jim was born in Berkeley Hills, Johnstown, PA in 1928. He graduated from Westmont High School.

He served in WWII after which he received his undergraduate degree from St. Francis University and graduate studies at University of Michigan.

He met Ann, his loving wife of 68 years in 1954 at a charity dance in Johnstown and celebrated a lifetime together with 6 children 25 grandchildren and 18 (+1) great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by Ann, his son, James Jr, brothers John “Jack” and Charles; sisters, Dorothy and Marjorie (George) Krueger. He is survived by his children; Elizabeth (Rick) O’Neill, Kathleen (John) Julien, John (Lillian), Ann (Jay) Bedortha and Mary Megan. Grandchildren Jim III (Julia), Michael (Noelle), Sarah (Bryan) Schwoebel, Tommy, Megan (Nick) Kluesner, MaryKathleen (Graig) Natelson, Sean (Courtney), Patrick (Grace), Jack, Kevin (Marissa), Daniel (Jessica), Patrick, Debye, Dylan James (Shannon), Elizabeth, John Francis, Joseph, Sarah, Oliver, Bridget Ann; Sean, Dan, (Alice), Sebastian, (Samantha), Sergio, Diego. Great grandchildren James IV, Jane, Michael, Antonia, Molly, Charlie, James, Teddy, Joe, Patrick, Andrew, Audrey, Beau, Ryan, Margaret, Bennet, Mona Li Ann, Ellie, Caroline, Brady and 1 more soon to arrive.

Jim was hired by the US Treasury Department in 1953 and quickly promoted to top level positions. He worked in various locations as he and his family moved from Johnstown, Pittsburgh, Providence and Wilmington, DE; with extended assignments in Manhattan, Philadelphia and the National Office in Washington, DC. Faith and family dictated decisions regarding employment location and timing to ensure the well being of his wife and children. This dedication and devotion was recognized by the church as he was chosen to lead the family rosary in Providence, RI Civic Arena premiere event, by Father Patrick Peyton; “The family that prays together, stays together.” A long standing member of The Knights of Columbus, he was active at each of their home parishes; serving as CCD instructor, Eucharistic minister and Funeral Mass Coordinator.

Jim will be remembered for his embrace of his Irish heritage and traditions. With a sparkle in his green eyes and lilt in his voice, he shared stories, songs and laughter with those he met. His example of hard work ethic and his commitment to education, faith and family are his legacy.

Funeral service Wednesday, February 26, 11:30 am at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church; Jensen Beach Florida; preceded by rosary and eulogy at 11:00 am.  At the family's request, please do not send flowers. 

Burial at Grandview Cemetery; Johnstown PA; date to be determined.

In memory of Jim, Holy Cross Family Ministries and Fr. Peyton Center, 518 Washington Street, Eastern MA 02356, is a cause close to heart.