James "Jim" A. Garrity

Born in Savin Hill, MA, he attended Mission Hill High School, where he was a standout football star. A resident of Hingham and Norwell MA, for 30+ years, Jim retired to Arizona in 2001 where he followed a deep passion and love for horses and competed in a number of reining and cutting events, forming relationships with those who later became some of his closest friends.

He is survived by his loving wife Donna, his children, Lisa Garrity of Marshfield, MA, James A. Garrity Jr., and his wife Nancy of Norwell, MA, MaryKate Garrity and her fiancée William Quigley of Rockland, MA, Michael Garrity and his wife Dianne of Hingham, MA as well as seven grandchildren: Anthony; Brittany (and her husband Zak), Kendra and Brian; Lexington, Hudson and Preston; and great grandson, Colter.  He is also survived by his half sister Diane Callahan of Falmouth, MA as well as many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends, all of whom he held in deep affection.  He is predeceased by his parents Natalie & Andrew “Andy” Garrity and sister, Natalie Foley.

Jim was a brilliant, hard-working entrepreneur. He founded Garrity Oil, which he very successfully owned and operated for 30+ years. He was also an integral part in launching a division of USA Waste in New England which was later acquired by Waste Management.  He instilled in his children and grandchildren, alike, his relentless work ethic. 

Jim enjoyed all sports ranging from his daily workouts to achieving a brown belt in Judo and following professional football.  He adored his children and took exceptional hands-on interest in their academic success as well as attending their athletic practice sessions and games. He took extraordinary pride in watching his grandchildren play all sports, always offering his loving praise by pointing out their game highlights and never afraid to offer them his unsolicited coaching. He loved game days and sharing the passion of horses and teaching them to ride! Jim loved to travel with “My Donna” whom he loved immensely, to the Mediterranean, southern Spain, ski trips out West and beach vacations in Mexico.

Thursday evenings you could often find him enjoying dinner at The Common Market restaurant with his long-time best friends Sal, Frank and Rocky who all, in their younger years, enjoyed playing friendly competitive handball at the YMCA.

He will be missed dearly by many.  

There will be a viewing on Friday, December 1st from 10am – 12Noon, followed by a brief service at Sullivan Funeral Home 551 Washington St. Hanover, MA. 02339.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at ALBA Restaurant, 2053 Washington Street, Hanover from 1pm – 4pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully and gratefully requests that donations be made to The Brain Injury Association of America.