James C. Hackett passed away at Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation Center in Saugus, on October 21, 2016. He was 69 years of age. James was born in Melrose on August 23, 1947 to the late William T & Mary L. (Gilfeather) Hackett. He was raised in Melrose, graduated from St. Mary's Grammar School, Melrose High School, Class of 1965, from the University of Massachusetts Boston campus and has been a lifelong resident of Melrose. While in college Jim worked at the Museum of Science at nights before working as a quality control engineer at NEC (Nippon Electronic Corporation) for many years. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary's Church and was always generous to Veterans, especially the Disabled American Veterans. Mr. Hackett was a voracious reader, enjoyed reading 6 newspapers a week including reading the Boston Globe and Wall Street Journal every day. James had an eidetic memory, loved history and enjoyed current events, music and poetry. He was the loving brother of William T. Hackett & his wife Mary Ann of NJ, Anne M. Hackett of Melrose and the late Kathryn C. Hackett. Cherished uncle of William F. Hackett Jr, Kristen A. Hackett & her husband Richard both of NJ and James Cyrus Hackett & his wife Valerie of OH. Dear & close friend of Thomas Priestley of CA and the late Richard Green formerly of Lynn. Also survived by many wonderful coworkers and friends. Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Saturday, October 29, 2016 from 8:30-10:00AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Church, Herbert St. Melrose at 10:30AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James's name to St. Mary's Parish, Fatima Garden Fund, 46 Myrtle St. Melrose, MA 02176.