John Harrington

John Harrington, a man of unwavering passion and intelligence, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2024, at the age of 85.

Born in 1938 in Baltinglass, County Wicklow, Ireland, he was the son of the late Michael and Nora (Shortt) Harrington.

John’s life was a testament to the enduring spirit of hard work and dedication to family. He was a loving husband for 56 remarkable years and a guiding light to his children, with whom he emigrated to the United States at the age of 50 to seek a better life for his loved ones.

John’s career as a machine operator was marked by his strong work ethic and his innate ability to command respect from his peers through his thoughtful approach to both work and life. John’s commitment to his work was paralleled only by his commitment to his family, for whom he provided unwavering devotion.

A man of many interests, John was known for his robust and passionate personality. He was a history buff with a deep appreciation for both Irish and American history, a reflection of his own life journey from Ireland to the United States. He had a love for hunting and fishing – activities that brought him closer to nature and provided him with moments of reflection and peace.

John’s home was the heart of family gatherings, where his talents as a great Irish singer often took center stage, that is if you persuaded him enough to get him on stage. His voice, filled with the richness of his heritage, would envelop the room, drawing smiles and admiration from all who had the pleasure of listening. Despite his strong opinions, he was known for his ability to express himself in a manner that was never offensive, a trait that endeared him to many.

An avid reader, John’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable. He found solace and adventure within the pages of books, and his thoughtful nature was further nurtured by the countless stories he absorbed. His intelligence was not just found in books, but in the wisdom he shared with those around him, always delivered with kindness and consideration.

John’s legacy is one of passion, intelligence, and thoughtfulness. He touched the lives of many with his strong presence and his ability to connect deeply with people from all walks of life. His absence will be felt profoundly by those who knew and loved him, but the memories of his songs, his stories, and his spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of his family and friends.

As we bid farewell to John Harrington, we remember a man whose life was a tapestry of dedication, love, and joy. His journey may have come to a close, but the impact of his life’s work and the warmth of his personality will continue to inspire and guide us. John’s story is one that will be recounted with pride and affection by those who were fortunate enough to be a part of his life. May he rest in peace, leaving behind a legacy as enduring as the history he so cherished.

Loving husband to Mary Harrington of Quincy. Cherished father of Michael Harrington and his wife Monique of Needham, Massachusetts, Alan Harrington of Stamford, Connecticut, Niamh DiBona and her husband Noel of Quincy, Massachusetts, and Patrick Harrington and his wife Nicole of Buckeye, Arizona. Grandpa to Andrew, Luke, Tyler, Joey, Theo, Aidan, Jack, and Nora. Brother to Thos Harrington of Ireland, Christopher Harrington of Ireland, Mary Sinah of India, the late Patrick Harrington, and the late Michael Harrington. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours from 4-8 PM on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., Quincy, Massachusetts. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:15 AM on Friday prior to the Funeral Mass at 10 AM at Saint John the Baptist Church, 44 School St., Quincy, Massachusetts.  A burial will follow at Pine Hill Cemetery, 815 Willard St., Quincy Massachusetts.

The funeral mass can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lx2Z4HVO8CM

Memorial donations may be made to the to the Alzheimer’s Association:  Alzheimer’s Association | Donate to Fight Alzheimer’s Disease or Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.