James F. O'Hara Jr

SPRINGFIELD –
James F. O’Hara, Jr., 61, passed away suddenly on November 5, 2019.
Jim was born on September 19, 1958 in Springfield, MA to Maureen and the late James F. O’Hara, Sr. He participated in Boy Scouts and Junior Achievement and was a graduate of East Longmeadow High School, class of 1976. He received his Bachelor’s and Teaching Certificate with a specialty in moderate special needs from Curry College in 1980. On November 1, 1981, Jimmy married his best friend and college sweetheart, Elaine. Over the years, Jim worked for Bailey Wagner, Hampden Furniture, The Apartment Shops, and Sigma Mattress before starting My Window Butler. His customers weren’t just customers; they became friends.
   Jim, with his bright and energetic personality, was known for his willingness to help anyone and everyone. He touched many with his generosity and love. Though a true lefty, he was everyone’s right-hand man. When he would hear of a need, he was always quick to lend that helping hand. When someone was in the hospital, he would go, visit, and often bring something to make them laugh.
He had a zeal for fun and the outdoors. After accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior, Jim’s zeal for fun and the outdoors culminated in his becoming involved in Camp Escape’s summer camp held at Monadnock Christian Ministries in Jaffrey, NH. These last 25 years, Jim was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in East Longmeadow. Teaching children’s Sunday school, going on Mission’s trips, organizing events are just a few of the things in which Jim was involved. He loved the Lord and he served others. He gave his all.
“And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.” – Romans 8:28
“Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His presence continually.” - 1 Chronicles 16:11.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife Elaine (Athens) O’Hara; daughter, Lauren O’Hara; son, Brian O’Hara and daughter-in-love, Meredith; his beloved grandchildren Kayleigh and Luke; mother, Maureen O’Hara-Chapin; sisters Kim Petersen and Bill, Suzie Ludwig and Jeff, Jenna Clark and Rick; mother-in-law, Christine Athens; brother-in-law George Athens and Janet, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to gather on Friday, November 15, 2019 from 4-8pm at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA to pay their respects, reminisce, and grieve. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2019 at 10:30am at First Baptist Church, 50 Parker Street, East Longmeadow, MA. Burial will be private.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Children’s Ministry. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.forastiere.com