Family, Friends Bid Farewell to James M. McCusker, Jr.

Funeral services were held today, May 21, at St. Mary's Church in Clinton for James M. McCusker, Jr., 76, who passed away Friday, May 17. "The sun came out for Jim today," said one woman who attended the funeral, as she and her friends admired the beautiful day. 

McCusker was a Boston College graduate and former member of the US Marine Corps. He served five terms as First Selectman of Clinton, totaling 11 years in the role. Before he became First Selectman, he served on the Clinton Board of Finance and Economic Development Committee.  He was also a member of the Board of Selectmen.

The funeral mass began with the processional and the singing of the hymn "Be Not Afraid," followed by readings from scripture. Father Michael Giannitelli, who officiated the funeral mass, spoke about McCusker:

"This was a good man that passed away.... When I saw him, what I saw was that he was surrounded by love; his family and friends. He told me how blessed he was in life..."

Jim's brother, Bob McCusker eulogized his older brother, remembering their childhood together. 

"My earliest memories of my older brother began when I was five and he was 15," Bob McCusker shared. "I remember him heading off the the town field on his bike with his baseball bat, and our beloved dog Tippy in tow."

Bob remembered his brother as an excellent athlete, an enthusiastic singer, a fan of all Boston sports teams, and the pride Jim took in being a Marine and in serving his country, and his community. 

"He loved to chat," Bob said. "He cared about people and he showed it. His family is so proud of his service to this town and his country and the love he had for his wife, his children and his grandchildren. He was a devoted and caring son and son-in law... I am proud of my big brother. Jimmy was a star, and my hero."

Jim McCusker's fellow selectwoman, Dolly Mezzetti, also offered a eulogy at the service. 

"Jim loved Clinton and the Clinton community," Mezzetti said. "He encouraged residents to have pride in their town."

Jim's children also spoke at the service.

On the back of the funeral booklet handed out to those who attended the service, a message read:

"The McCusker family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses and medical personnel who helped Jim during his illness. We would also like to thank our many family members and friends for their constant prayers of hope and healing during this difficult time."

McCusker's burial took place immediately following the ceremony at St. Mary's Cemetary. A reception was held after the burial services at the Town Hall. A procession through Rt. 1 in town McCusker's took place prior to the funeral mass. To view McCusker's obituary, click here.