Obituaries 07-17-2025

James Cole, Sr.

He will be forever cherished by all who loved him

James W. Cole Sr. passed away unexpectedly at his home in Tewksbury on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.  He was 75 years of age. 

Born and raised in Chelsea, James was the son of the late Edward and Marie (LePore) Cole.  He attended Chelsea public schools and was well known for being an exceptional athlete, playing on all of the Chelsea sports teams.  Jim was a US Army Veteran, serving at the end of the Vietnam era.  He dedicated a number of years at the Chelsea DPW, before taking employment at the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, maintaining the tunnels.

Jim was a long time Chelsea resident before taking residence in Tewksbury for the last 10 years.  He had a passion for cooking and took pride in knowing he served the best meatballs around. He loved cooking but not more than his grandchildren.  His grandchildren were Jim’s prized possessions; he loved being a grandfather and being involved in their lives. 

Jim was also very proud of his hard work in maintaining his sobriety and the dedication he put into AA.  He took pride in being able to mentor and support those in need.  He will be forever cherished by all who loved him.

The husband of Denise (Countie) Cole of North Reading, he was the devoted father of Dawn M. Collins and her husband, Kerry of Rowley, James W. Cole, Jr. and his wife Rosa of Tewksbury and Krista M. Cole, also of Tewksbury; dear brother of Edward Cole, Jr. and his wife, Janet of Chelsea, Thomas “Bucky” Cole and his wife, Carol of Saugus and Patsy Pistone of Revere;  the cherished grandfather of Kyle, Kayla, James, Jordyn, Joseph, Julianna and Sophia.  He was also lovingly survived by many nieces and nephews.   

Relatives and friends attended visiting hours at the Carafa Family Funeral Home, 389 Washington Ave., Chelsea, on Wednesday July 16.    Funeral Services will begin in the Funeral Home today,  Thursday, July 17 at 9 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Grace Church, 59 Nichols St. Chelsea, at 10 a.m.  Interment will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.  

We encourage family and friends to visit www.carafafuneralhome.com to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or to send a personalized sympathy card.

Timothy J. Lush

Dedicated Family Man

Timothy passed away, Thursday morning, July 10, 2025 at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.  He was 87 years of age. 

Born in Boston, he was the son of the late William H. and Mary B. (Scannell) Lush.  Tim was a lifelong resident of Chelsea, attending Chelsea public schools and graduating from Chelsea High Vocational School. A US Army Veteran, Tim enlisted into the US Army on March 4, 1957 and he was honorably discharged on March 3, 1960.  He was a dedicated family man, supporting his family by working two jobs for over twenty years. He was a taxi driver for Chelsea Cab as well as working as a bus driver at the MBTA.  During retirement Tim enjoyed playing poker and his morning coffee at McDonald’s, catching up with friends.  He will be cherished by all who loved him.

Tim was the devoted husband for 58 years to Donna L. (Hanlon) Lush of Chelsea, beloved father of Paul J. Lush and his wife, Robin of Florida, dear brother of Anna Berntsen of Kentucky and the late William Lush, Albert Lush and Helen Stoker.  Tim was also lovingly survived by three granddaughters, Deanna Buchner and her husband, Matthew, Andrea Lush and her wife, Shannon and Sara Day and her husband, Roderick and three great grandchildren, Lillian, Lucas and Lincoln Day.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Carafa Family Funeral Home in Chelsea.  Funeral Services and Committal will be held at a later date.

We encourage family and friends to visit www.carafafuneralhome.com to offer condolences at this time by means of the online guest book or to send a personalized sympathy card.

Jeanette “Jeanie” M. Ames

 Daughter, Partner, Mother, Grandmother

Jeanette “Jeanie” M. Ames of Chelsea, MA, passed peacefully on July 12, 2025 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers, lovingly surrounded by her son, Josh Ames, and grandson, Adam Ames. Born to John T. Ames Sr.—a lifelong Chelsea police officer and Jacqueline Calabro, Jeanie was embraced and guided by Carol Ames, whose unwavering love and support shaped her life. She shared a profound bond with her brothers, each a cherished pillar in her world.

Until Jeanie’s passing, her home was filled with love and companionship from her loving partner, Joe Giordano, and her beloved cat, Misty. Her fierce Boston character—straight-talking, joyful, and bold—was reflected in her passion for cheering on the Red Sox and Patriots as well as her delight in all cuisines Boston – lobster, steamers, and Kelly’s Roast Beef.

A familiar presence at the Revere Lodge of Elks, she found community in its camaraderie and its spirit of service. Through every illness and hospital stay, Jeanie’s resilience astonished her family and caretakers alike. Her tenacity revealed a woman who never backed down—a testament to the strength she carried from her humble beginnings into every aspect of her life.

Jeanie’s legacy is one of grit, family devotion, and relentless love. She is survived by Carol, Joe, son Josh and his wife Rebecca, grandchildren Adam and Edith, and brothers Gary and his wife Allison and Jim and his partner Leeann. She is predeceased by brother John Jr.  Even Misty feels her absence.

A private family memorial will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery (Everett). In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Kaplan Family Hospice House or a local animal shelter, honoring Jeanie’s love for animals and the care she received at the end of her journey.

To send online condolences, please visit www.vertucciosmithvazza.com.

Marvin Hooker

Of Chelsea

Marvin Hooker of Chelsea died July 1, 2025, at the Mass General Hospital in Boston.

The loving son of the late Reuben and Rhoda (Dye) Hooker.  He was born, raised, and educated in Chelsea and was the loving brother to the late Lawrence Hooker and Frances Hooker of Chelsea.  Marvin is survived by his sister Ryna Veneziano of Peabody and niece and nephew Kim Kaner of Manchester, MA and Todd Veneziano of Los Angeles, CA.

Marvin leaves behind many friends and acquaintances, particularly his friends from Revere Beach, where he enjoyed spending his weekends chatting and having lunch at Kelly’s.  Marvin always had quick wit and was willing to lend a helping hand to his friends when called upon.  He will be deeply missed.

The family has chosen to have a private ceremony. Contributions in Marvin’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

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