Obituary for James W Branagan
James W. Branagan, age 63, died at home on Friday, May 15, 2020 after a year long battle with cancer. Jim was born on July 3, 1956 to Mary Frances (Corbutt) and William Branagan in Jersey City. He grew up in Jersey City with his siblings; Kathleen, John, Mary Theresa, and William. He attended St.Paul of the Cross Grammar School in Jersey City, St. Joseph's High School in West New York, and Montclair State University. Jim spent many summers in Highland Lakes, NJ with his Aunt, and Uncle, Paul and Patricia Corbutt and cousins Catherine, Lillian, Frances, and Paul. It was during the summer of 1978 when he met the love of his life, Mary Grace Healey and they married in 1979. They raised their children Michael, Erin, and Timothy and Goddaughter Kathryn Cronin in Highland Lakes and Vernon.
Jim began a career in banking at the young age of 18 and moved his way up to manager during his 37 years in the industry working at various banks. After retiring from banking, not able to just stay still, he began a 2nd career working in the Vernon Twp school district as a school custodian. He loved seeing the children and working with the staff and his co-workers.
Jim was a dedicated fan of the NY Mets, NY Rangers, and yes, even the NY Jets, never changing alliances through good years and bad. He was a trivia buff and would challenge anyone, especially with sports. He was an officer and coach with the Vernon Little League for several years. He treasured every moment cheering on his children in soccer, baseball, hockey, swimming, and musical activities. Jim enjoyed family vacations at the Jersey shore, kayaking, watching his favorite sports teams, and traveling with his wife - especially their recent trip to beautiful Ireland.
Jim was predeceased by his father, William Branagan, sister Kathleen Feczko, and infant daughter Mary Kate Branagan. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Grace (Healey) Branagan, his children Michael and Erin Branagan of Vernon; Timothy Branagan and wife Candice and granddaughter Aubrey of Glenwood; and Goddaughter Kathryn Cronin of Dingmans Ferry, PA and his mother, Mary Frances Sheridan, and siblings John (Mary Ellen) Branagan, Mary Theresa (Benny) Salerno, William (Gina) Branagan, and John Feczko, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends.
Jim will always be remembered for his willingness to help anyone, his smile, and his story telling. Jim's unconditional love for his family and friends will be treasured forever.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on the anniversary of his death, on May 15, 2021 at the Vernon VFW.
Jim began a career in banking at the young age of 18 and moved his way up to manager during his 37 years in the industry working at various banks. After retiring from banking, not able to just stay still, he began a 2nd career working in the Vernon Twp school district as a school custodian. He loved seeing the children and working with the staff and his co-workers.
Jim was a dedicated fan of the NY Mets, NY Rangers, and yes, even the NY Jets, never changing alliances through good years and bad. He was a trivia buff and would challenge anyone, especially with sports. He was an officer and coach with the Vernon Little League for several years. He treasured every moment cheering on his children in soccer, baseball, hockey, swimming, and musical activities. Jim enjoyed family vacations at the Jersey shore, kayaking, watching his favorite sports teams, and traveling with his wife - especially their recent trip to beautiful Ireland.
Jim was predeceased by his father, William Branagan, sister Kathleen Feczko, and infant daughter Mary Kate Branagan. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Grace (Healey) Branagan, his children Michael and Erin Branagan of Vernon; Timothy Branagan and wife Candice and granddaughter Aubrey of Glenwood; and Goddaughter Kathryn Cronin of Dingmans Ferry, PA and his mother, Mary Frances Sheridan, and siblings John (Mary Ellen) Branagan, Mary Theresa (Benny) Salerno, William (Gina) Branagan, and John Feczko, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends.
Jim will always be remembered for his willingness to help anyone, his smile, and his story telling. Jim's unconditional love for his family and friends will be treasured forever.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on the anniversary of his death, on May 15, 2021 at the Vernon VFW.