James McGrath

James Anthony McGrath, 77, of West Chester passed away on September 25, 2015.



Born in Glens Falls, NY, Jim was the son of Thomas and Luella McGrath. He attended St. Mary's Academy and graduated from Villanova University.



Immediately after college, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps.



He married his high school sweetheart, Joan in 1963 and they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage. They began their family in Massachusetts, spent a few years in New Jersey before settling in West Chester in 1971 where they raised their children.



Jim was especially proud of his large family. He was the loving father of James (Tiphaine), Jana (Glenn) Koser, Jay (P.J.), Julia (David) Works, Jarelyn (John Paul) Clark and Joela (Dan) Powell; loving grandfather of Jennifer, Kate, Amanda, Megan, Max, Fiona, James Rollin "J.R.", Grace, Sophie, Matthew, Makenzie, Rachel, Delaney and Peyton; dear brother of Jean Lockwood, Thomas McGrath, Dan McGrath, Mike McGrath, and Mary Denise McGrath.



He was a successful business man who ran an agency for the Allstate Insurance Company, but what he valued and cherished most in life was his family and friends, his Catholic faith, sports, and his Irish heritage. Through his example, he taught his family many lessons, but most importantly love, kindness, gratitude and generosity. He had a special place in his heart for the elderly and sick, and he made daily rounds to share words of encouragement, a laugh, and a cup of coffee. He was also a Eucharistic minister at his parish, SS. Simon and Jude. His kindness and compassion were inspiring.



A gifted athlete, Jim was an avid runner and high jumper and enjoyed competing in the Senior Olympic Games, where he won numerous titles. He loved playing basketball, racquetball, tennis and golf (especially with his Monday foursome). Though he was a fierce competitor and always played to win, his favorite part of the game was sharing laughs with his teammates and opponents. He looked forward to basketball season every year, so he could cheer on his beloved Villanova Wildcats. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren compete in all their sports and activities.



One of his greatest pleasures in life was spending time in Hilton Head Island, S.C., where he hosted many family vacations. He took great joy in seeing his grandchildren smile as they played happily in the pool and at the beach. He savored early morning walks on the beach with his wife and dog, playing golf and tennis with friends, and sunset cruises on the lagoon with his neighbors.



Jim was a man of strong faith. He lived well, laughed often and was loved by many. His family would like to thank everyone for their loving support and prayers during his illness.