James Behan

James “Jimmy” Behan passed away in the early morning of March 3, 2024, reuniting with his wife, Anne, of 53 years in heaven. Born in Dublin, Ireland to Eileen and James Behan, Jimmy was a proud big brother to Maeve, John, Gerry, and Norman. He completed his schooling and began working at the Dublin Docks before going to work at sea aboard the Irish Hawthorne, a time he always spoke about with great pride. Shortly after returning from sea, he met Anne, the love of his life, whom he married in 1963. Their first child, Paul, was born two years later. In 1966, the young family emigrated to Santa Clara, California to meet Anne’s sister Eva who had already come from Ireland. Jimmy immediately began working to provide for his family. He worked at General Electric in San Jose before securing employment with United Airlines at the San Francisco Airport Maintenance Base. There he worked and advanced his career for 33 years, retiring as a Jet Engine Mechanic. Jimmy and Anne had two more children, Anne-Marie and Ciara. His son Paul would later marry Teresa bringing her sons Jonathan and Mitchell into the family. Together, Jimmy and Anne created a full life amongst a vibrant Irish community of friends and family, and had good times filled with an abundance of joy and laughter. After retiring, Jimmy loved going on cruises around the world and being a grandpa. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He will be dearly missed by Khiely and her husband Jon, Aspin, Makayla, Kate, Christian, and Madison. He will always be remembered for his strong work ethic, warmth, friendliness, and witty sense of humor. Jimmy was a lifelong learner and took pleasure in a good debate. Jimmy’s greatest achievement was having a loving family. He invested so much into those he loved: his sister, brothers, children, grandchildren, and countless friends. All of those he gave his love to will be his legacy.

A Rosary is scheduled for Thursday, March 21st at 4:30pm at Lima Family Mortuary

466 N Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050.

The Memorial Mass is scheduled for Friday, March 22nd at 12:00pm at the Carmelite Monastery

1000 Lincoln Street, Santa Clara 95050.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Friday, March 22nd at 2:00pm at Kona Kai Club

680 Hubbard Avenue, Santa Clara 95051.

A Memorial Mass and Celebration of Life in Ireland are pending.