James Edward McCartney

James Edward McCartney, 81, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of James “Jim” McCartney, born on April 28,1944. Jim passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, after a beautiful day surrounded by his family and many friends. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Jim brought joy, laughter, and love into the lives of everyone around him. He will be missed by all who knew him, but his resilient spirit will continue to live on in our memories.

He was preceded in death by parents Edward and Catherine, and first wife Dianne Smith. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ellen “Mindy”, son Sean and daughter- in-law Lori, grandchildren Jonah and Julia. He is also survived by his siblings George McCartney, Lydia (George-deceased) Hammar, and Michael (Cathy) McCartney. He leaves his extensive family of in-laws whom he loved very much: John (Alice) Costigan, son Jeff; Tom-deceased (Patty) Costigan, son Michael; Terry (Debbie) Costigan, children Chris and Megan; Kathy (Fred) Shorder, daughters Sarah & Amanda; Ann (David) Benson, Sue Costigan, daughters Emma & Audrey.

Jim was a proud graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, Class of 1962. He furthered his education at Youngstown State University, where he graduated in 1966. He continued his education obtaining his Masters of Educational Administration at Westminster College in Pennsylvania. Jim was a lifelong learner, always seeking to broaden his horizons and to be the best he could be.

Jim enjoyed a career in education that spanned 39 years. He began his career teaching 4th grade, but soon progressed into administration by becoming Elementary Principal at Dixon Elementary in Columbiana, Ohio. In 1974, Jim became Elementary Principal at Newberry Elementary in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. In 1992, he became principal at DeWitt Elementary School and remained there until his retirement in 2005.

Jim's most cherished role was that of father and grandfather, Father to Sean and grandfather to Jonah and Julia. He followed his son Sean’s basketball and coaching career from childhood until his passing. He waited every Friday evening for the phone call about the game. He was a passionate fan of Jonah’s basketball career from the time he was a little boy through college, either attending in person or watching on TV. Always telling him to “take the shot!” Julia’s many gymnastics meets highlighted his Saturday afternoons. This family and his whole extended family were the center of Jim's world, and his devotion to them was unwavering.

Jim was an avid golfer, both in his leisure time and as his chosen form of exercise. He was often seen on the course, perfecting his swing and enjoying the company of fellow golfers. Jim had many friends, most notably the Tuesday-Thursday Cuyahoga Falls Golf guys whom he had been playing with for more than 45 years. He enjoyed all the new friends he made at Portage Country Club, especially his golfing buddies, Bill and Tom. In addition to his love for golf, Jim was an avid outdoors man. He enjoyed hunting in his earlier years, fly-fishing, fly-tying, and hiking.

In his retirement he and Mindy loved experiencing new cultures and creating lasting memories with their world travels, making new friends with every trip. In mourning his loss, we celebrate Jim's life. His love, his wisdom, and his spirit will forever remain in our hearts. His legacy will continue to inspire us, reminding us of the importance of family, faith, and love. Jim would tell you all to “Take the Shot!”

Calling hours will be held at Ciriello and Carr Funeral Home 39 S.Miller Rd on Wednesday July 9 from 4pm-7pm.

The Rite of the Christian Burial will be held on Thursday July 10 am at 10:00 at St. Vincent Catholic Church 164 W. Market St.

Burial immediately following at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Donations in Jim’s name may be made to St. Vincent Food Pantry c/o St. Vincent Church 164 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44303.

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