James "Jim" Edward Garfield

James “Jim” Edward Garfield, age 71, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully at his home on October 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 7, 1954, to the late Richard and Helen “Dorothy” (Small) Garfield, Jim spent a wonderful childhood in Salem. He fostered many lifelong friendships during his time at Phillips Elementary School, the Boy Scouts, his youth group, and Salem High School. Following high school, he attended the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and went on to dedicate his career to the maritime industry, ultimately retiring as a superintendent for Massport Operations. Retirement didn't slow him down; Jim thoroughly enjoyed his time working in security at the Peabody Essex Museum, where he connected with his community daily.

On April 1, 1978, Jim married the love of his life, Pamela Diamond, in Marblehead. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their family in Beverly. Jim approached every day with kindness, courage, and a legendary sense of humor. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and the countless friendships he built through his favorite passions, photography and boating.

In addition to his beloved wife, Pamela, Jim is survived by his son, Richard Garfield, and his wife, Janna Kauss of Somerville; his daughter, Amanda Blackmore, and her husband, Stephen of Hollis, NH; and his cherished grandchildren, James (Sammy) Garfield, Max Garfield, and Emmeline Blackmore, who brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by his brother, Leonard Garfield, and his wife, Mary Ann of The Villages, FL; his sister, Dixie Kulik, and her husband, Thad of The Villages, FL; and his brothers-in-law, William Diamond, and Thomas Diamond and his wife, Michelle. He leaves behind his loving nieces and nephews: Nicole McLaughlin, Kara McLaughlin, Kim Garfield, Heather Kulik, Matthew Kulik, Michael Diamond, and Matthew Diamond. He was predeceased by his sister, Jeanette McLaughlin, and her husband, Bruce; his sister-in-law Mary Garfield; and his nephew, Scott McLaughlin.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 13, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal Street, Salem. A Memorial Service will be held the following morning, Saturday, November 14, at 11:00 a.m. at the Murphy Funeral Home, with a reception to immediately follow. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jim’s name to:

Neuro-Oncology Research

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund

P.O. Box 849168

Boston, MA 02284

or

Plummer Youth Promise

37 Winter Island Road

Salem, MA 01970

For additional information or to sign the online guestbook, please call the Murphy Funeral Home at 978-744-0497 or visit www.murphyfuneralhome.com.