James A. Meaney, Sr., 81

James A. Meaney, Sr., 81 of Lenox, passed away October 16, 2024 at home. Born in North Adams on August 11, 1943, he was the son of Paul and Ruth Quinn Meaney.

He was educated in North Adams Schools and was a 1961 graduate of St. Joseph High School. He then went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree in secondary education and his Master’s degree in education from North Adams State College. 

Jim married his high school sweetheart, the former Louise Soderstrom on June 25, 1966.

Mr. Meaney had a passion for education. He was the Vice-Principal for Drury High School from 1988 through 1993. Prior to that, he had worked in the Pittsfield Schools, primarily as a Social Studies Teacher at Taconic High School. 

A communicant of Sacred Heart Church, he was an avid golfer and enjoyed all sports. He was also a High School Golf and Basketball Coach for many years. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Louise Meaney of Lenox. He also leaves his children, James Meaney, Jr., and his wife Sharon of Bow, NH, and Deborah Diehl of Pittsfield. Two brothers, John Meaney, Sr. and Gregory Meaney, both of North Adams. He was a fun-loving Papa of five beloved grandchildren, Ryan, Caitlin Cassandra, Connor and Cameron, and two great-grandchildren, Lennox and Hewitt, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Meaney, Jr., and two sisters, Mary Ellen Perreault and Anne Carruth.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held, Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, celebrated by Rev. Steven Montesanti, Pastor. Entombment services will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  

Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St, Pittsfield, MA.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society or to HospiceCare in the Berkshires and mailed to Dery Funeral Home.