James J. Finnerty

James Joseph Finnerty of Hainesport passed away at his home on Dec. 7, 2008. He was 79. He joins his parents Percival & Mary Boyle Finnerty and brother Thomas John – always called “the boys.” Jim leaves his sister Mary Ellen Finnerty Cronin, nephews Joel (Gina), John (Laura), great nephews Joey & Tony Finnerty; Tommy Vito Finnerty & Caityln Rose; sister-in-law Cecelia Finnerty. His greatest joy was seeing & hugging his only child – Susan Jennifer DiFrancesco (husband Michael) who was born to Jim & Joanne Marchetelli Finnerty on November 22, 1970. He is also survived by his grandchildren Melissa & Samantha DiFrancesco. His passing was supported by so many people – neighbors, friends, co-workers and employees of Samaritan Hospice who stood by Jim & Mary Ellen-all childhood photos showed Jim holding Mary Ellen’s hand; he did so on the day he went to meet His Savior. Jim graduated Our Lady Queen of Peace High School in N. Arlington, NJ; was in the Air Force for 4 years. Jim was an alumnus of Seton Hall University in S. Orange, NJ and retired in 2006 from the NJ Department of Transportation. His passion for the homeless was deeply rooted in his belief – “give to another in silence” – Matthew. His prayer garden was his sanctuary for his beloved birds & the assortment of feral cats he fed over the past 10 years – all were named, fed, and never left to shiver in the winter – his shelters gave “the cats” a safe haven. Midnight was Jim’s companion and seemed to enjoy old movies, Perry Mason and “How it’s Made.” Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at the Sacred Heart Church, 260 High St., Mount Holly. Interment will be in the Mount Holly Cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday evening from 7-9 PM and on Wednesday morning from 10-10:30 at the Perinchief Chapels, 438 High St., Mt. Holly. Please remember Jim by feeding a stranger, feeding the animals, and memorials to Samaritan Hospice, 5 Eves Dr., Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053 – whose unyielding presence enabled Jim to leave from his “green bungalow.” His friends are so many to name – please know that we all are indebted for your visits, prayers, and support for Mary Ellen.

James J. Finnerty

May 5, 1938 - December 7, 2008