James B Medlinskas

James Medlinskas, of Worcester passed away Friday July 20th 2012 after being stricken ill in his sleep. Jim was born in Worcester, son of Bernard and Anne (Wallance) Medlinskas. He graduated from St. John's High School in 1965, earned his bachelor's degree in English from Holy Cross College in 1969, and then earned his master's degree in Social Work from Boston College in 1971. Jim then dedicated his life to two things, the daughter he cherished, Meghan, and to helping people with mental challenges, working two jobs in this field; 26 years for the Department of Mental Health at Worcester State Hospital as a Clinical Service Authorization Specialist for children and adolescents and as a Crisis Clinician for Harrington Memorial Hospital for 30 years. He was still working both positions and had completed his shifts the day before he passed away. Jim is survived by his daughter, Meghan Lightbown and her husband Robert of Caribou, Maine; His fiancée Lucy Villanueva of Worcester; her son Brian Hoisington, his wife Christy and daughters Emily and Isabella of Tyler, Texas; her daughter Jennifer Harris and her husband Kip of Lubbock, Texas; Many friends and extended family members. Jim was devoted to his religion, being a graduate of Holy Cross and Boston College; He could regularly be seen at his church St John's. He was a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Mystic Valley Railway Society and the National Association of Railroad Passengers. As a single dad, Jim took great pride in that term finding his life's enjoyment raising and being with Meghan. He loved to travel by train with Lucy and saw many sights around the country this way. He also enjoyed reading, taking walks with his "grand dogs", Rory and Boo, jogging daily, the New England Patriots as well as a love/hate relationship with the Boston Red Sox. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Tuesday, July 24th from 5 pm to 8 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be celebrated Wednesday, July 25th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 am in St John Church, 44 Temple Street. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St John's Food for the Poor, 40 Temple St. Worcester 01604.