James T. McFarland

James T. McFarland of Upper Darby passed away peacefully on July 24, 2024 and was reunited with his loving wife of 53 years, Kathy (nee Sheerin), who predeceased him in death 7 short months ago.  

Jim was the son of the late Thomas and Kathryn McFarland and was born in Washington D.C. He grew up in Drexel Hill and graduated from Monsignor Bonner High School in 1963.

Jim was a proud United States Navy veteran who served on the U.S.S. Jack, the first commissioned nuclear submarine, from 1966-1969. Jim was a self-taught guitar player who enjoyed sharing his love of folk music with his children and grandchildren. He nightly lulled his kids to sleep with John Prine songs and then continued sharing his love of music with all who would listen.  He enjoyed singing songs around the campfire in the summers and strumming the ukulele with all of his grandchildren.  

Jim was as generous as he was cantankerous.  He would always have a spare dollar or two handy in his car for times he encountered someone asking for help. He quietly helped local families in need, allowing presents to be bought for children at Christmastime and some families to have vehicles. Jim didn’t hold back on his opinions, letting you know what he thought about a topic. He also freely shared his feelings on your opinion as well. He was never afraid to speak his mind and never hesitated to admit when he was wrong and ask for forgiveness, a quality he modeled and instilled in his family. He loved fiercely and will be forever missed by many.  

Beloved husband of the late Kathleen (Sheerin); Loving Father to Denise Cramsie, Nicole Zimmerman (Michael), Jason, Michael (Robet), Thomas (Deborah), Mary McFarland and Danielle Williams (Joshua). Cherished Pop to Kahla, Julie, Declan, Brenna, Logan, Liam, Cole, Chase, Pierce, Lucas, Skyla, Hunter, Farah, Brody and Roux. Also survived by his loving sisters, Carol Dean and Claire Martini. Jim was predeceased by his Granddaughter, Elli Cramsie. He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins and more.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing Monday July 29, 2024 6pm, O’Leary Funeral Home, 640 E. Springfield Rd., Springfield, PA 19064 and Tuesday July 30, 2024 9:30am at  St. Laurence Church, 8245 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082. Funeral Mass Tuesday 11am in the Church. Int. private. Donations to the Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org