It was our honor to award two James Mooney Memorial Knights of Columbus Scholarships to:
The recipients were selected by the St. Mary’s upper school teachers based on their academics, effort, service and living by Catholic values. This year and going forward, we named the scholarships in honor of Jim Mooney who we sadly lost this past year. Jim Mooney was a devoted member of St. Mary's parish and a long-standing member of the Melrose Knights of Columbus for 45 years. Jim held many officer positions, including Grand Knight, and was a close friend of many of the Knights.
Jim was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, retiring in 1972 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Jim received many accolades throughout his military career, including the Army Commendation Medal, the Bronze Star, and the Meritorious Service Medal. But most importantly, Jim was a dedicated family man devoted to his wife Claire and their family. The Knights wanted to honor Jim for his many years of service to his country and community, and for his commitment to helping others through the Knights of Columbus. Jim was also a strong supporter of these scholarships to St. Mary’s graduates.At the presentation ceremony are (from left) Claire Mooney (Jim’s wife), Kelsie McNamara, Matthew Tarpey and Mary Kate (Jim and Claire’s daughter).