James E. Cavanaugh

James E. Cavanaugh, Sr., 75, affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, at St. Anne's Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 5, 1949, in Fall River, Massachusetts, to the late Henry J. Cavanaugh and the late Rita M. (Kelly) Cavanaugh.

Jim was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the Army from 1971 through 1982 and earning the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Throughout his service, he earned numerous medals including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal (third award), Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Rifle M16 Expert Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (1), and the NCO Professional Development Ribbon (2). His dedication to his country extended beyond his military service; he found great fulfillment in volunteering to assist his fellow veterans.

After his honorable service in the Army, Jim contributed to his community as the manager of Merritt Gas Station on Pleasant Street. He took pride in his work and made many friends along the way. He was a graduate of B.M.C. Durfee High School and was deeply engaged in lifelong learning, particularly enjoying reading, especially the Bible.

In his personal life, Jim was a man of diverse interests. He had a passion for coin collecting and building model cars, pursuits that let his creativity and meticulous nature shine. Above all, he was a man of great faith and cherished time spent with his family.

Jim was the father of Dawn M. Cavanaugh, Jennifer Cavanaugh, and the late James Cavanaugh, Jr.; grandfather of Chelsie Stephenson (husband Frank), Darron Tucker, Jr. (fiancée Shannon), Craigory DoRego, and Aidon Pina; as well as his great-grandchildren, Jahmier, Kyren, Nash, Emry Stephenson, and Darron Tucker III, the brother of Robin Vieira, Lorie Moore (husband Ron), Brenda Medeiros (husband Paul), and the late Joanne Cavanaugh. Jim also leaves several nieces and nephews and three great nephews.

A visitation will be held in Jim's honor on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Tuesday morning of April 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main Street, Fall River, with his funeral service at 10:00 AM at the same location. Burial with military honors will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Veterans Association of Bristol County, 755 Pine St. Fall River MA 02720.