James P. "Jim" Mooney, LTC-Army retired, of Melrose, died at his home surrounded by his family on Dec. 12, 2017 at the age of 85. Jim was the beloved husband of Claire M. (Tivnan) Mooney for 60 years. Loving father of Patricia E. Lambert & her husband A.J., Paula A. Smith & her husband Robert, Michael J. Mooney & his wife Laura, all of NH, Mary Kate Perrotti & her husband David of Melrose and Sean D. Mooney & his wife Shawntel of OK. Cherished grandfather of Michael, Anthony, Christopher, James, Nicholas, Steven, Alyssa, Andrea, Brian, Julie, Caitlin and Colleen. Great grandfather of Lyla & Lorenzo. Special Papa of Gately & Nevaeh. Caring brother of the late Charles, William, Edward and Louise Mooney and Mary Rogers. Brother in law of Robert Tivnan & his late wife Sheila and the late Edward Tivnan & his late wife Andrea. Jim was born on July 14, 1932. He was the youngest child of Patrick and Mary Ellen and brother to Charlie, Mary, Billy, Eddie and Louise. He was raised in Somerville and graduated from St. Clements High School, Class of 1950. Upon graduation, Jim enlisted in the United States Army where he climbed the ranks, retiring in 1972 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Jim received many accolades throughout his military career, including the Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star, and Meritorious Service Medal. While home one weekend to attend a friend's wedding, Jim met the love of his life, Claire Marie Tivnan. Jim and Claire were married on April 19, 1958. Their 60+ years together were filled with love, family, faith and a lot of military moving! Each of their five children were born in different states where Jim was stationed. After retiring from the Army, Jim went to work for Waldo Brothers Construction Inc., retiring after 25 years in 1997. During that time, he went to Northeastern University at night and received his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Never one to stay idle for long, Jim then went to work for his son-in-law Bob at New England Auto Engineering in Tewksbury, working right up until this past November. Jim was very active with the Knight of Columbus, Council 128, since moving to Melrose in 1972. He held several different positions, including Grand Knight and Financial Secretary. His Brother Knights held a special place in his heart. Jim was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends. Since childhood, a favorite trip of his was spending time with family at White Horse Beach. Weekends spent at the Coast Guard Station in Nahant, a.k.a Papa's Beach, the family's annual week at Hampton Beach, hot summer days floating in Paula and Bob's pool and trips up to Kate & Dave's lake house. These memories were made even more special since he was usually surrounded by his 12 grandchildren, and most recently, his 2 great grandchildren. His greatest love was his wife, Claire. Among their favorite things, Jim and Claire held a weekly date night on Friday nights at the Six Twenty-One. They enjoyed attending the North Shore Music Theater. And anyone driving up Bellevue Ave at 5 o'clock were sure to see the two of them enjoying their manhattans on the front porch. Jim was well loved and will be missed dearly. Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Sunday, Dec. 17th from 2-6PM. Procession from the Gately Funeral Home on Monday, Dec. 18th at 8:45AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary's Church, 9 Herbert St., Melrose at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose, In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. U.S. Army Korean & Vietnam War Veteran.