James J. Flanagan, 91

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — James J. Flanagan, 91, of North Adams died on Friday July 1, 2016, at Williamstown Commons.

He was born in Philadelphia on September 17, 1924, son of James J. Flanagan Sr. and Mary (McBrien) Flanagan. He attended schools in North Adams, graduating from Drury High School. 

Mr. Flanagan was a veteran of the United States Air Force during WWII as a Staff Sargeant. He was a radio operator-gunner and flew many missions receiving many commendations. He was employed at Sprague Electric Company as an account manager for 45 years. He was more recently employed at Lopardo’s  Store on River Street in North Adams. He was a communicant of St. Francis of Assisi Church. 

He enjoyed reading, photography and especially music. He played the harmonica the clarinet and the piano.

James married his first wife, Evelyn (Tatro) Flanagan, in June 1951. She died in June of 1975. He married his second wife, Lois (Porrovecchio) Fitzroy Flanagan, on October 21, 1979. She died on May 10, 2009.

James leaves his two daughters, Deborah Flanagan of North Adams and Sharyl Flanagan of Dover N.H.; his son, Stephen Flanagan of North Adams; seven grandchildren, Daniel Dudziak, Michelle Angell, Ashley Molleur,Ryan Flanagan, Kalie Phillips, Cassie Brazeau and Karli Cutler; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Michael Flanagan of Florida; and a sister, Ann King and her husband William of Williamstown.

He was predeceased by his brother, Dr. Martin Flanagan. 

Funeral notice: A service to celebrate the life of James Flanagan will be held Saturday, July 9, at 10 a.m. at Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, West Chapel, 521 West Main St., North Adams, with calling hours from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Burial with full military honors will be in Southview Cemetery. All are welcome to the VFW 573 Mohawk Trail after the services.