James E. McAdam

James E. McAdam, age 86, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, surrounded by his children, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Born on March 7, 1939, James grew up in Everett, Massachusetts, and was a longtime resident of Lynnfield.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie (Barissano) McAdam, his partner for 55 wonderful years. Together they built a beautiful life rooted in family, love, and loyalty, values that guided James throughout his days.

James leaves behind his loving daughter, Lisa Doonan, and her husband Bill of Blackstone; as well as his devoted son, Sean McAdam, his wife MaryEllen of North Andover, and their three children, Kyle, Danielle, and Liam.

One of eight siblings, James is survived by John, Kathleen, Terry, Jean, Paul, and Meg McAdam, and was predeceased by his sister, Patricia.

Affectionately known as “Coach” McAdam, James was deeply involved in the hockey community. He spent some of his fondest years winning state championships with Austin Prep, traveling to Europe to coach Team USA, and bringing Bentley College to the NCAA Division I level. Coach was a mentor to hundreds of young men and had a remarkable ability to make everyone around him better, on and off the ice. His love for the game was shared most closely with his son Sean, with whom he spent many years coaching side by side.

Outside the rink, Coach cherished every moment with his grandchildren. He never missed one of Kyle’s shows, Danielle’s field hockey games at Holy Cross, or Liam’s hockey games. He shared a special bond with each of them and was always their greatest supporter. He took immense pride in their accomplishments and loved sharing their successes with friends and family.

James was always on the move. Whether swimming for hours on the Brewster flats with Marie walking beside him, running countless road races and marathons, or skiing down the slopes of Killington, nothing ever slowed Coach down.

James, Coach, Jim, and Jimmy will forever be remembered for his humility, gratitude, and unwavering love for his family and for life itself.

Visitation for relatives and friends will be held in honor of James at McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave., Wakefield on Tuesday, November 18 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Maria Goretti Church, 112 Chestnut Street, Lynnfield on Wednesday November 19 at 11:00 a.m. Interment, Forest Hill Cemetery, Lynnfield.