James F. Jennette, of Worcester, passed away peacefully, Monday April 3, 2017 surrounded by family after a valiant battle with paralysis from a work injury. He was 57 years of age.

James was born in Worcester, one of six children of Michael A. Jennette, Jr. and Mae Louise (Carey) Jennette. He graduated from Burncoat Senior High School and accepted a position in the construction industry and began to raise a family. One day, while working on a job site, James injured himself and became a Quadra paraplegic. Never saying why me, he looked his future in the eye and found ways that his injury couldn’t deter what he wanted to do, enjoying his family, his hobbies and his life to the fullest until this day.

James is survived by his two children, Justin J. Jennette of Watertown and Jessica Corrine Jennette of Webster; His five siblings who dearly loved and helped care for him. Michael A. Jennette, III and his wife Lorraine, Thomas A. Jennette and his wife Susan, Marilyn A. Brunelle and her husband Charles, Catherine A. Jenray and her wife Vanessa, John P. “Jack” Jennette and his fiancée Margaret “Peggy” Hamel; a granddaughter he cherished Jayla M. Lentz; Eleven nieces and nephews, many extended family members and friends.

James was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Church. An accomplished amateur billiards player, over the years James earned many awards and tournament trophies around Massachusetts and New England for his play. He enjoyed Harley Davidson Motorcycles and was a long standing member of a 1 % motorcycle club. He also loved the beach and being with his family and friends. James was also a huge Patriots and Red Sox fan. At one time, James was a partner in F & J construction Company.

James funeral will be held Friday, April 7th from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation leaving in procession at 10:30 am to Immaculate Conception Church, where Reverend Walter Riley will celebrate his funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Thursday, April 6th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to VNA care hospice, 120 Thomas Street 01608.