It is with great sadness that the family of James Donaghy (senior) say goodbye to our beloved father, grandfather, uncle and brother-in-law. On Tuesday September 4, 2018 James passed after a brief illness, at the age of 81 years. James will be forever missed by his son James and his family (wife Nancy, children Patrick (Stephanie), Chelsea (Evan)), his son Steve and his family (wife Mary, children Heather, Bonnie) and by his brother and sisters-in-laws (Jim and Susan Craig, Marge Price), nieces, nephews and friends.
James was born on May 15, 1937 in pre WW2 Glasgow and met the love of his life Beatrice when they were teenagers. They were married in 1959 just before he started two years of service in the British army. They immigrated to Canada with their sons in 1966. He was a hardworking journeyman steamfitter who gave all for and to his family. James was a champion dart player and football (soccer) enthusiast. He often said that some of his proudest memories were that he got to play both soccer and darts with his sons. He loved his daughters-in-law like they were his own and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. Jim Craig was more a brother than brother-in-law and they were best friends for more than 60 years. In their retirement years James and Beatrice treasured their time together and he was a devoted caregiver to her in her final years until her passing in January of 2018.
James was predeceased by his wife Beatrice, his parents Teresa and Patrick, and 6 siblings. We give special thanks to the 5th floor staff at Guelph General Hospital for the loving care that he received. A private interment ceremony for James and Beatrice together will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 519-822-0051. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Guelph General Hospital.