James B. Irvin

James B. Irvin, 74, of Gardner, passed away after a valiant struggle with respiratory illness. 

Born in Oklahoma City, OK on May 15, 1947, the son of the late William W. and Jeanne Louise (Allan) Irvin.  James Graduated from Wadsworth High School in Wadsworth, OH with the class of 1965.  Jim did not have a typical childhood. He began supporting himself at the age of 16, working after school, and into the night at the Morton Salt Company in Rittman, OH. Through all his hard work and determination, he received his Associate Degree in nursing through Akron General School of Nursing in Akron, OH. James was a United States Army Vietnam War Veteran serving from 1971 to 1983, where he received the National Defense Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and Army Nurse Student Program Identification Badge. James became a registered Nurse employed by Lawrence General Hospital, Lawrence, for 21-years prior to his retirement.

James was a parishioner of Annunciation Parish/ Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church of Gardner. He enjoyed playing cards and board games, including chess and his Friday night poker games with his friends. James loved his rescue dogs, Wiley Cornelius and Louemma. He was also an avid antiquer, enjoying many outings at Brimfield. James donated to many charitable foundations and was an avid fan of The Ohio State Buckeye’s. His most pleasurable moments were spent with his family, always treasuring the times they spent together. 

James is survived by his wife of 38-years, Susan Y. (Hebert) of Gardner; a daughter Jessica Dube and her husband Chris of Winchendon and their children Geneveve and Zachary; a son Jason Brown and his wife Linda of Leominster and their child Cameron; two brothers, William Irvin Jr; Mark Irvin and his husband James Renninger of Texas; a sister, Janice Hueggler; daughter-in-law, Dawn Merryfield of Leominster; favorite sister-in-law, Nancy Hebert of Gardner; brother-in-law Norman Hebert and wife Donna of Hubbardston, several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his son Kerry Brown; granddaughter, Ashleigh Brown; a sister-in-law, Joyce Kraskouskas; and his guardian angel, Aunt Montra Wolfson, who lovingly raised him as her own.

According to Jim’s wishes, services will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Academy, 99 Nichols Street, Gardner, Ma 01440. Please reference in memory of James B. Irvin.