James F. Driscoll

Jim was the third of seven children born to John T. and Jean M. Driscoll. He was raised in Dorchester and St. Gregory’s Parish, and fondly recalled memories from his childhood on Clearwater Drive. He spent his summers in Scituate, where he later settled and raised his family, and attended Xaverian Brothers High School. After graduation, he spent four years at Providence College, where he was a fixture at the student pub (where he tended bar) or in the stands catching a hockey game.

Jim went on to receive his law degree from Suffolk University and enjoyed an interesting and varied career. He served in many roles as an attorney, including as General Counsel at the Massachusetts State Lottery and as Executive Director at the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, where he ended his career. In his public-facing positions, Jim was counted on to provide counsel on difficult and sensitive issues. His reliability and sound judgment made him a trusted advisor to all who had the pleasure of working with him—from elected officials to senior Church leadership.

Jim was a pillar of his community. A man of service and faith, he could be found on the sidelines coaching youth sports teams, serving as a lector during weekly Mass at St. Mary’s Church, volunteering for the Knights of Columbus, or helping with countless other civic endeavors. Jim was loved by many in Scituate and beyond. Given his generous spirit, Jim enjoyed many friendships across all stages of life. He was a true and reliable friend. When someone needed something—an obscure tool to borrow, company for a beer, or support during a difficult time—Jim was your guy.

Raising four daughters came naturally to Jim, and fatherhood brought him great joy. He loved spending time with his family. He was a constant presence in his daughters’ lives and provided them with steadfast support. Above all, his proudest title was that of grandfather, or to his five grandchildren, “Jib.” He effortlessly transitioned from super-dad to super-grandad, and was a cherished presence in the lives of his grandchildren. From frequent Disney trips to catchphrases and inside jokes, he built the closest of bonds with them. His grandchildren, like all, will sorely miss his warm presence, even as the memories endure.

After learning that he had a rare cancer, Jim battled tirelessly against a daunting diagnosis. In persevering as long as he did, he exceeded all expectations (much like his beloved New England Patriots in their 2025 Super Bowl run). During that difficult time, his lifelong faith provided him with tremendous solace. He frequently spoke of faith and family in his final days, including those relatives who had previously departed. The entire Driscoll Family is deeply grateful to Jim’s many caregivers, especially Dr. Stephen Lane of Healthcare South, Dr. Haley Ellis of MGH, Becky Primmer, RN of Croí Health Hospice, and Irene O’Halloran and her dedicated team of caretakers, all of whom provided Jim with love, dignity, and care.

Jim was the loving father of Kelly J. Driscoll and partner Mike of Canton, Katie D. Buttaro and husband Andrew of Cohasset, Jenny A. Driscoll and partner Dave of Cambridge, and Molly J. MacDonald and her husband Sean of Cohasset. Jim (Jibby) was a cherished grandfather to Anna, Clare, and Madeline Buttaro; Ronan Sullivan; and Sophie MacDonald. He was a brother to Jack, Bill, Jean, Paul, Maureen, and Rob, and an uncle to their many children.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jim’s life by gathering for visiting hours in the Richardson-Gaffey Funeral Home, 382 First Parish Road, Scituate, MA on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m., and for a funeral Mass at St. Mary of the Nativity Church, 1 Kent Street, Scituate, MA, on Friday, September 4, at 10 a.m. The family will be having a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Jim may make gifts to the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute in support of Dr. Ellis's Cholangiocarcinoma Research. Gifts can be made online at giving.massgeneral.org. Please select “Make a Tribute,” or mail a contribution to Mass General Brigham Development, c/o Bell Camelo, 399 Revolution Drive, Suite 1330, Somerville, MA, 02145. Checks should be payable to Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, with “In Memory of Jim Driscoll” in the memo.