James Edward Franey of Abington, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on August 22, 2024. Born in 1939 to John and Eileen Franey of Abington, Jim was the eldest of eight children. He graduated from Abington High School in 1956 and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Boston College.

Jim had a deep love for the natural world and science, a passion he shared with countless students during his 38-year career as a physics and biology teacher at Cohasset High School. Known for his "fun, interesting, and effective" teaching style, his most treasured accolades came from his students. As recently as two months ago, a former student reached out to thank him for his sense of humor, recalling his memorable catchphrase: "Physics is Phun!" During his time at CHS, Jim also coached golf and powder-puff football, formed lifelong friendships with colleagues (affectionately known as the "Belles" and "Romeos"), and was a proud member of the legendary "Poison Room" (the teachers' room).

In 1965, Jim married his long-time sweetheart, Joyanne Packard of Whitman. After briefly residing in Scituate and Norwell, they made their home in Abington, where they have lived for the past 50 years. Jim was deeply involved in his community, serving on the Abington Finance Committee and then on the Board of Selectmen. He was also a faithful communicant of St. Bridget's Catholic Parish.

A devoted family man, Jim especially cherished spending time with his grandchildren. He was also an avid reader and golfer, and a passionate fan of the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, and BC Eagles. He treasured moments spent with loved ones, especially while rocking on the porch at the family cottage in Pocasset, enjoying spectacular sunsets. His wise, quiet nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Joyanne; his daughters Ann Parks of Abington, Sheila Franey of Pocasset, Lynne Nickley and her husband Richard of Abington; his six grandchildren: Sean Nickley and his wife Emma, Brian Nickley, Jeffrey Parks, Michael Nickley, Kathryn Parks, and Kristin Parks; and his great-grandson and namesake, Oliver James Nickley. He also leaves behind his seven siblings and their spouses: Robert (Dorothy) Franey of Cotuit, Mary Ellen Aia of Bridgewater, Richard (Maryjo) Franey of Abington, Michael (Barbara) Franey of Abington, John (Terri) Franey of Carver, Joseph (Roberta) Franey of Abington, and Eileen (John) Bombardier of East Bridgewater; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

Jim's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Norwell VNA and Hospice, Jeanette and the doctors at Nephrology Associates, and Dr. John Croke for their exceptional care and compassion. Also thank you to friends and family for their many lovely gestures throughout his illness.

Visiting hours will be held at Quealy Funeral Home on Friday, September 13, from 4 PM to 7 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to greet the family at  Quealy & Son Funeral Home 116 Adams Street, Abington, Saturday September 14 at 9:30 AM,  followed by Mass of Christian Burial at St. Bridget Church, Abington 10:30 AM. Private burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mark Franey Family Fund (c/o Abington Bank, 6 Harrison Avenue, Abington, MA) to assist Jim's nephew in his courageous battle against ALS would be appreciated.