Northborough / Bolton
Brighton

John Leo Moffitt, retired Boston Firefighter of 37 years , WWII Veteran and Purple Heart recipient, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on April 18, 2018. He lived a full life during his 95 years. He was a remarkable man who left a wonderful legacy of love and devotion to his family and friends. Known for his honesty, humility, and wonderful sense of humor, he truly valued making personal connections with others. He was committed to his country and his community. His family, home and garden were most important to him.
John was the beloved husband of the late Elizabeth (Bannon) Moffitt who died in 2008. Left to cherish his memory are his three daughters, Kathleen Moffitt and her husband Robert Burrus of Virginia, Mary O’Connor and her husband Mark of Rhode Island, and Helen Ranger and her husband Russell of Bolton, as well as 5 grandchildren , 7 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Frank and sisters Betty and Kaye.
John was born at home in Newton and was raised in Brighton. He was the son of the late Joseph and Mary A. (Dolan) Moffitt. In 1942, John enlisted into the U.S. Navy where he proudly served aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Bunker Hill which participated in numerous battles in the Pacific. After a kamikaze attack he was listed M.I.A. During his service in the Pacific Theater John witnessed the raising of the American Flag over Iwo Jima. John was a member of the Disabled American Veterans. In addition to the Purple Heart he received many military honors.
After serving his country John returned to Brighton where he began his 37 year career with the Boston Fire Department at engines 34 and 29 in Brighton. After retirement, John moved to Northborough where he remained for 17 years prior to his recent relocation to Bolton to live with his family. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 23rd from 8:30am - 10am at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. John’s funeral will follow at 11am at Trinity Church Congregational of Bolton, 14 Wattaquadock Road, Bolton. After Military Honors, John will be laid to rest privately in Mass. Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the to the AYJ fund www.ayjfund.org
201 Eagle Street, North Adams MA 01247

To leave a condolence, please visit John’s Book of Memories at www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

Affiliations