James Paul Fairbairn Jr., MD

James Paul Fairbairn, Jr., MD, age 72, passed away February 16, 2025, at his home in Chicago. Born on July 27, 1952, to Dr. James and Patricia Fairbairn (nee Flynn), he dedicated his life to the field of medicine and to his patients, serving as a respected cardiologist for 46 years. Dr. Fairbairn received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1974, his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1978 and completed his residency and fellowship at Mercy Hospital. He went on to practice at Mercy Hospital for the entirety of his career. Dr. Fairbairn was a valued colleague to his peers and found great joy in teaching medical residents at Mercy Hospital. He was in his element when serving patients at his private practice in Chicago’s Canaryville neighborhood, where devoted nurses and staff members became like family to him.

Dr. Fairbairn was a skilled physician beloved by his patients, who aptly described him as soft-spoken, intelligent, and a great listener with a superb bedside manner. Jim was also an avid runner and completed several Chicago marathons.

Jim is survived by his sons, Thomas (Christine), Michael and Patrick; grandsons, Peter and Samuel, sisters; Judith and Dr. Patricia (Mitchell Foster), and former spouse Kathleen Fairbairn. “Jimmy” was beloved by his extended family, including many cousins. His warmth, humor and generous spirit will be dearly missed.

Visitation Sunday, February 23rd, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 W. 103rd Street in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Prayers, Monday, February 24th, at 10:45 am at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 W. 103rd Street in Oak Lawn, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Christina Church, 3342 W. 111th Street Chicago, 11:30 am. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery.