James T. Hennessey

STURBRIDGE - James “Jim” T. Hennessey, 71, of Sturbridge, passed away unexpectedly on July 13, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Lauren (Miknaitis) Hennessey, with whom he shared a life of love, adventure, and partnership for over 43 years.

Born in Worcester to the late William and Isabella (Parajeckas) Hennessey, Jim was a lifelong resident of Central Massachusetts. A dedicated and hardworking man, he spent 46 years at Saint-Gobain/Norton Company, working his way up to Engineer Technician before retiring in 2017.

Above all, Jim was a proud and endlessly supportive father to his two daughters, who were the center of his world. He never missed a moment, supporting them unconditionally at countless horse shows and celebrating every milestone. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren, and he became affectionately known as “Papa Jim.” His heart had room to spare for his three cherished granddogs, Todd, Jett, and Kei, who loved their days at the lake with him.

A gifted photographer, Jim had a way of capturing the soul of a moment, telling stories with his lens that words never could. He found his greatest peace and joy outdoors. He was most at home with a fishing rod in his hand, dirt under his nails from his garden, or simply sitting by the water at sunrise.

His legacy lives on in the values he instilled and the unconditional love he poured into his family every day.

In addition to his wife Lauren, Jim is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Meghan Hennessey-Hollis and her husband Eric of Holden, and MacKenzie Hennessey and her husband Tyler Chatigny of Westminster; his beloved grandchildren, Spencer and Leighton; his brother William “Bill” Hennessey Jr. and his wife Marie; his sisters, Karen Janes and her husband Steve, and Denise Fogarty; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, July 21st from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street in Holden. A funeral service will follow at 5:00 PM in the funeral home. Family and friends are kindly invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's memory may be made to Mass Audobon Society, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773 or https://www.massaudubon.org/take-action/donate.