James Scully McNally, age 68, beloved husband and father, passed peacefully at home in Concord on May 12, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 20, 1956 to Margaret (Scully) and Louis K. McNally Jr., Jim grew up in Concord alongside his five siblings. A graduate of Concord-Carlisle High School, Jim participated in lacrosse, wrestling, and the marching band as a drummer. Jim continued his academic career at Springfield College where he continued to compete in wrestling and lacrosse.

Jim was a passionate coach and educator, inspiring students at Sidwell Friends School (Washington D.C.), The American School of Paris (St. Cloud, France), The Moorsetown Friends School (New Jersey), and most recently as Director of Athletics for the Rivers School (Weston, MA). Devoted to sports education, he absolutely loved coaching - from soccer to rugby to "'rastlin." This dedication led him to various roles within the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) that he held with immense pride including NEPSAC President, District President, and Director of Championships. In 2018, Jim was awarded the NEPSAC Distinguished Service Award - recognized for his roles within NEPSAC, and also his time as president of the Independent School League (ISL).

Jim's passion for sports education did not stop with the academic year. He spent his summers at Cape Cod Sea Camps, lovingly referred to as "Casper." Adored by campers and counselors alike, Jim served as a longtime staff member & Assistant Director and made every summer the "best summer ever." Through CCSC, he made lifelong friends and developed his passion for cycling through volunteering for the Pan-Mass Challenge. Jim rode the PMC with Team CCSC and, in other years, led his crew of "Lug Nuts," who organized luggage operations for riders. Despite already being an avid golfer and NASCAR enthusiast, he became an accomplished triathlete, spending lots of time on the Cape Cod Rail Trail and bravely swimming up and down Nauset Beach.

Incredibly dedicated to his faith, Jim was an integral parishioner of St. Irene's Parish of Carlisle, MA. Teaching CCD for many years and actively participating in weekly masses as a Eucharistic Minister, Jim was a pillar to the St. Irene's community.

While Jim was many things related to his accomplishments and interests, he was also an incredible father. He raised his children to find joy in the little things, appreciate every day that God gives, and to lead with kindness and empathy. He brought a lightness to life that will be dearly missed. He will be remembered for his booming laugh, wide smile, and ability to break into song at a moment's notice.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Laura, who cared for him throughout his final years; his three children, Patrick, Alyssa, and Megan; his siblings Jack (Cecelia) McNally, Patricia (Paul Emerson) McNally, and Louis (Vicki Swenor) McNally III; and his 16 nieces and nephews. Jim is greeted in Heaven by his mother; father; and sisters, Marga and Maura. He sang until the end, and will be a beloved member of God's band.

The family welcomes friends to gather for visiting hours on Monday, May 19 from 5 to 8 PM at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Concord Center. Jim's Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 20 at 10 am in St. Bernard's Church at Holy Family Parish, 12 Monument Square, Concord Center. Please click here to access the church live stream, for those who wish to attend the Mass remotely.  Private burial services will follow at St. Bernard's Cemetery, Concord.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Dementia Unit or to the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge General Fund .

Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.