Obituary of W. James McGrath

William James “Jimmy” McGrath, 74 PEABODY – W. James “Jimmy” McGrath, 74, died unexpectedly on Tuesday August 21, 2018 at his home. Born in Salem, he was the son of the late William and Malvina (St. Pierre) McGrath. He grew up in Salem where he attended schools, and lived there most of his life. He lived in Peabody the last 23 years. Mr. McGrath proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and was stationed in Alaska. He was an Automobile Mechanic with Commodore Lincoln-Mercury of Peabody for many years until they closed. Jimmy was active in the Knights of Columbus, Veragua Council 76 of Salem, and the Fourth Degree Fr. Gabriel Druillette Assembly. He was very involved in veteran organizations, and was Senior Vice-Commander of the V.F.W. Post 1011 of Peabody. Jim had a love for animals, having many pets throughout his life, and his latest was his cat Keno, and had a collection of Model trains. He is survived by two daughters, Lynne and her husband David Ryder of Peabody, and Kerry and her husband Gene Valcourt of Bradford, and three grandchildren, Abby Ryder, Matthew Ryder, and Zachary Valcourt, and longtime friends Bill and Gail Neve. He had a longtime companion Julie Cobb who died several years ago. Following cremation, relatives and friends are kindly invited to gather for a visitation in the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St., on Thursday August 30 from 11 AM to 12 Noon, with a brief ritual ceremony followed by urn burial in Cedar Grove Cemetery Peabody with Military Honors.