Bernard James “Jim” O’Malley

Bernard James “Jim” O'Malley, known affectionately as Jim, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on December 22, 1934, in Winchendon, MA, Bernard was a loyal, talented, generous, and loving individual who touched the lives of many.

Growing up in a large Irish Catholic family as the second son and third of eight siblings, Bernard learned the value of hard work from a young age. He fondly recalled setting pins at the local bowling alley, caddying for golfers at the Winchendon School, and managing a paper route during his youth. These experiences, coupled with the trying circumstances of World War II, instilled in him a strong work ethic and an appreciation for being able to provide for his loved ones. After graduating from Murdock High School in 1952, Bernard proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. His later career as a Steam Engineer at Erving Paper spanned over four decades, a testament to his dedication and talent in his field.

A generous soul, Bernard was always there for his family and friends, ready to lend a hand or share a word of encouragement. His love was a sturdy beacon, guiding those fortunate to know him. Bernard is survived by his daughters Kathleen Landry, Natalie Kendall, her husband Les, Emily O'Malley, Patsy Smart, her husband Gary; his son Brian O'Malley, his wife Terry; his brother Thomas O'Malley; his sisters Barbara Maillet and Alice McGovern, her husband Rick, and his sister-in-law, Effie (Travis) Farnham. His grandsons Jeff Landry, Nick Landry and his wife Nancy, Jim Landry and his wife Meghan, Brendon O'Malley and his wife Agnes, and Collin O'Malley. His granddaughters Gina Cudak, Diana Green and husband Jonathan, and Amanda O'Malley. Great grandsons Anthony and Avery Lewis, great granddaughters Hadley Wells, Willow Landry, Mairead Landry and Kendall Green; a special friend, Elise Clark.  As well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Rose "Babe" (LaCount) O'Malley; his parents, William and Bernice O'Malley; his siblings, William O'Malley, Mary Dumont, Helen Cain, John O'Malley and B. Ruth VanZandt his grandson Shaun Carson and his great Grandson Adrian Lewis.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 9 -10:45 am at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA. A funeral mass will follow at 11:30 am at St. Martin Church, 247 State Road, Otter River, MA. Burial will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon.

We invite everyone who knew and loved Bernard to share their memories and upload photos of him to his memorial page at brandonfuneral.com In remembering Bernard, let us celebrate the remarkable life of a man who truly embodied the virtues of loyalty, talent, generosity, and love.

Donations in his name may be made to Toys for Tots.