Joseph P. "Joe" Flanagan was born and raised in Newbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland where he attended secondary school at Newbridge College. He went on to Trinity College in Dublin to attain a bachelor's degree in economics. Graduating in 1989, he moved to the States and worked as an accountant at The Boston Company where he met the love of his life, Sheila (James). He returned to Ireland in 1990 to earn a master's degree from University College Dublin and promptly returned to Boston where Sheila was waiting for him. They married on August 5, 1994. Together they had three beautiful children – Sean, Stephen and Deirdre. Joe continued to work in finance and also obtained his C.F.A.. His talent, intelligence and work ethic were quickly noticed by his peers. In 1998, he joined Highfields Capital as one of their first employees and worked his way up to Managing Director. He loved and respected his Highfields family and remained with the firm for the rest of his career. Faith and family were most important in Joe's life. Weekly mass was a must, as was making the Sunday phone call to his Dad in Ireland. When going on vacation, locating the nearest church was part of the planning process. The most precious thing in his life was his family. He referred to his wife as his greatest asset and his children were his pride and joy. Joe was a big sports enthusiast, especially of horse racing. Saratoga and Santa Anita race tracks were annual destinations. He enjoyed traveling, live music, a good game of cards, and a lively debate among friends. He was loyal, trustworthy and generous. He will be incredibly missed. Joe was the beloved husband of Sheila M. (James) Flanagan. Loving father of Sean P. Flanagan, Stephen T. Flanagan and Deirdre E. Flanagan, all of Melrose. Devoted son of Thomas & the late May (Fleming) Flanagan of Ireland. Caring brother of Mary Flanagan & Catherine Brophy & her husband Paul, all of Ireland. Brother in law of Mary K. Flaherty & her husband David of Chelmsford, Ronald James & his wife Lynn of Utah, Eileene Armenia & her husband Francis of New York and Margaret Andre & her husband Rodney of Tyngsborough. Also survived by nieces, nephews, relatives & friends. Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Sunday, September 13th from 2-5PM. Due to the current health crisis, the funeral mass and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Melrose Emergency Fund, Mayor's Office, 562 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176. Checks should be made out to the City of Melrose with "Melrose Emergency Fund" in the memo line.