James Brennan Obituary

James E. Brennan

Florence, MA — James E. Brennan, "Jimmie," passed away on November 19, 2021, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield with his brothers Rick and Jack at his bedside.

James was born on November 21, 1942, in Springfield, MA son of the late James J. and Hazel E. (Rogers) Brennan. He attended the former Annunciation School in Florence and graduated from the former St. Michael's High School in Northampton in 1960. Following high school Jim proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Jim spent the bulk of his time in the army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Upon his return to Northampton Jim served as a police officer in Northampton for 13 years. In 1974 Jim moved to San Clemente, CA and later took up residence in Trabuco Canyon, CA. Jim worked as a parts manager until his retirement in 2008. He returned to Northampton (Florence) and resided at the family home on Middle Street.

Jimmie's great passion resided in anything automotive. From his teenage years onward Jim's great passion was in working on cars of every description. While in California, Jim collaborated with his friends in building and racing stock cars. On a Sunday afternoon, Jim could be found watching football, car races or a golf tournament. In his later years Jim enjoyed a challenging round of golf, playing whenever or wherever he traveled.

Jim enjoyed being with friends and family. He was a great and loyal friend to all, never to be outdone in giving of his time or generosity, Jim was a friend to everyone he met. If you were a friend of Jim's, you were a friend for life. Jim could engage with everyone he met, and he always left one with a lasting impression.

Affectionally known as "Jimmie" by family members, Jim is survived is survived by his brother Richard Brennan and his wife Pauline of Jacksonville, FL; brother Rev. John Brennan of Monson, MA; his nephew Yebrail K. Brennan of Orlando FL and his niece Sylvia Johnson and her husband Bryan of Sycamore, IL; his grandnieces and grandnephews and many cousins and friends. Jim is also survived by his lifelong friend John Leary and his wife Natalie. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister Mary C. Brennan in 2013.

A funeral will start from CZELUSNIAK FUNERAL HOME, 173 North St. in Northampton, on Thursday December 2 at 9 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Annunciation Chapel, Beacon St. In Florence at 10 AM and committal at St. Mary's Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday December 1 from 4-8. For online condolences, please visit Czelusniakfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.