John J. Foley, Jr. Melrose, Massachusetts Obituary

John J. Foley, Jr.

John J. Foley, Jr. “JJ” or “Johnny” passed away peacefully on January 19, 2021, following a long illness at age 71. John was born and raised in Melrose, son of the late Mary M. (Greelish) Foley and John J. Foley. He graduated from St. Mary’s grammar school and Malden Catholic High School. He worked at LeBlanc’s Pharmacy on West Wyoming Avenue and Cerretani’s Market while in high school. John honorably served in the U.S. National Guard from 1968 to 1974. He was a member of the Carpenter’s Union, Local 2168, for more than 50 years and elected president of the local. John worked installing carpeting and flooring until his retirement. He was a longtime member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 1124 of Norwood where he served as Exalted Ruler and dedicated himself to community and charitable events and programs. He was loving father of John Anthony & his wife Amanda of California, Ryan of Boston, James of Melrose, Katherine of Kentucky, and Matthew of New York. John was also grandfather of Leonardo, Angelo, Mia, Tommy, Brook, Fallon and Parker. John is also survived by nine siblings and their spouses; Maureen & Chuck Funk, Kathy & Richie Ciulla, Peggy & Jimmy Kent, Diane Turner, Tommy Foley & his wife Diana, Danny Foley & his wife Vanessa, Kevin Foley & his wife Kai, Anne & Mike McDermott and Sharon & Joe Turner, and 32 nieces and nephews and 44 great nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his brother Jimmy and brother-in law Steve Turner. He is also survived by his uncle Kevin Greelish and many cousins and friends. Funeral services and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in John’s name to a charity of your choice.
November 6, 1949 - January 19, 202111/06/194901/19/2021
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peter cosco
April 11, 2021
Working along side of one of the greats in the industry was a pleasure and a great leaning experience. Class and gentlemen on a job site will disrobe John to a T . I’m very lucky to know and work with him . Rest In Peace
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Ted Craft
January 31, 2021
Just heard of Johnny's passing; so many years ago he was a friend but my memory is clear of a dear and often wistful man, a joy to be with, who loved life and cherished his family. Very sorry to hear of your loss. Ted Craft
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Lauren Foley
January 28, 2021
Yesterday was beautiful ❤️ I know you were responsible for the sun—always warming the ones you cared about the most with your love. You were the most encouraging, generous, loving person; and impacted my life for the better. I could not have asked for a better Uncle. I l... Continue Reading
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Audrey McMahon (Dugas)
January 27, 2021
Prayers and hugs to the Foley clan! How fortunate we were to have the wonderful memories of our neighborhood growing up. It was the best of times. Johnny you will be missed.
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Douglas Frazier
January 27, 2021
Doctor you will surely be missed it was a blast to work along side of you.
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Marie (Dugas) Morrow
January 27, 2021
Love and prayers to the Foley family. Growing up with the "Adams St" gang was the best ever. Our children today will never know the best of times. Rest in peace Johnny. We will miss you dearly.
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Sten Anderson
January 26, 2021
John Foley was a gentleman. I enjoyed several rounds of golf and family events with John, his brothers, and other family members. John had a quick wit and always had a hilarious story or joke, with an impeccable delivery. Many years ago, during a round of golf on the ... Continue Reading
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Susie Daly
January 23, 2021
To all of the Foley Families, A big Irish grin, a bear hug and a smooch and a hilarious joke was the traditional welcome I always got from Johnny whenever I got to see him at a get together with Diane and Steve. I will never forget our joke-a-thon at one of the annual... Continue Reading
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Rick dares
January 23, 2021
Sending my heart felt condolences to the foley family very sad to hear the news work with John for many years had many laughs, those where the days you didn’t mind going to work that group of guys where legends can never be replaced Rest In Peace Johnny Rick Dar... Continue Reading
Jack Rahilly
January 23, 2021
John was born the day before my big brother Jimmy.His MOM & my MOM were both crossing guards in Melrose, our families were close.Rest in peace old friend.