Kingston, Massachusetts Mourns the Sudden and Heartbreaking Loss of Beloved Community Member and IBEW Brother “JL”

KINGSTON, MA — A deep wave of grief has swept through the town of Kingston, Massachusetts, and across the broader family of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 104, following the sudden and devastating passing of a cherished member, remembered affectionately by many simply as “JL.” His full name, now carried with sorrow and reverence, is known to those who loved him as one of integrity, strength, compassion, and quiet leadership.

This tragic loss has sent shockwaves not only through his family and friends, but also across the professional and union communities where he served with honor and distinction. Known for his unwavering dedication as a husband, father, son, and friend, his death leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those closest to him and the countless lives he touched.

A Husband, Father, and Son Who Inspired Through Everyday Acts of Love

Above all else, he was a family man. He was a devoted husband, a steadfast partner, and a deeply loving father to two young children, Willow (7) and Jack (5), whose lives were the center of his world. To know him was to know the importance he placed on family—his pride and purpose.

Friends recall countless moments of him beaming with pride at his children’s milestones—whether it was a first bike ride, a school performance, or simply an afternoon in the backyard. He carried himself with a father’s quiet sense of duty: always present, always engaged, and always putting his family first.

To his wife, he was a rock. Their bond was the kind of partnership many admire and few truly understand—a connection built on mutual respect, humor, and deep emotional resilience. In every photo and every shared memory, that love is unmistakable.

He was also a son, cherished by his parents and extended family for his reliability, kindness, and humility. To them, he was more than just a relative—he was a source of comfort and pride, a man they watched grow into someone who gave far more than he ever asked to receive.

A Life of Brotherhood and Service: The IBEW Local 104 Legacy

Professionally, he was a proud and active member of IBEW Local 104, where he was both respected and admired. His fellow linemen and union brothers describe him as someone who embodied the values of hard work, solidarity, and mutual respect. Whether it was in the field during long days and longer nights restoring power, or in the union hall supporting fellow members, he could be counted on—always.

Those who worked beside him speak of a man who didn’t just show up, but lifted others up. He was known for mentoring newer members, sharing not just skills but wisdom about safety, perseverance, and teamwork. He understood the inherent risks of the job and met each one with a balance of caution and courage. More than a colleague, he was a friend, a guide, and a guardian.

The IBEW Local 104 Charity Organization, of which he was an integral part, now grieves not only the loss of one of their own, but of a man who symbolized their shared values of brotherhood, giving back, and serving with purpose. His contributions to countless charitable efforts and community outreach programs will be remembered as part of a legacy far greater than words can express.

A Community in Mourning: Tributes Pour In

As the news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across Kingston and beyond. Neighbors described him as the kind of person who would shovel someone’s driveway without being asked, or stop to help a stranger with a flat tire. He was visible in the community, not for accolades, but for the impact he made quietly and consistently.

Friends recall his infectious laugh, his thoughtful advice, and his natural ability to bring calm in a storm. At barbecues, on job sites, at local sporting events, or just sitting on his porch with his kids—he made others feel welcome and seen.

His loss is felt especially deeply by families in Kingston who knew him through school events, youth sports, or community gatherings. Children played beside his own, and parents traded stories of the joys and challenges of raising kids in a tight-knit town. His presence was one of warmth, dependability, and kindness.

The Suddenness of Tragedy

What makes this loss all the more painful is its suddenness. There was no warning, no time to prepare, and no sense of closure for those left behind. The shock has reverberated through every corner of his life, and the pain is raw.

In moments like this, the community has rallied. Vigils have been held, meals delivered, and messages of love and support flood social media and neighborhood conversations. A memorial fundraiser was swiftly organized to support his family, particularly his young children who now face a future without the daily guidance and comfort of their father.

This outpouring of support reflects just how many lives he touched—and how deeply.

Remembering a Man of Quiet Strength

In a world often loud and fleeting, his strength was quiet and enduring. He lived by example, not by speech. He didn’t chase recognition but left a mark everywhere he went. Those who knew him will remember his work ethic, his devotion to his loved ones, and his willingness to always step up—whether on the job, at home, or in the community.

He had an unwavering moral compass. In the face of adversity, he remained composed and compassionate. In times of celebration, he uplifted others before himself. He knew the value of small moments, and he treasured them.

Whether it was reading bedtime stories to his kids, sharing a cold drink with a friend after a long day, or simply sitting in quiet reflection with family, he understood the meaning of presence.

A Legacy of Love and Honor

His memory now becomes a legacy—a powerful reminder of how a life lived with integrity, love, and service continues long after it ends. His children, though young, will grow up hearing stories about their father’s kindness, bravery, and loyalty. His wife will carry the legacy of their love, and his family will hold tightly to the countless moments they shared.

For his fellow linemen, his name will endure not only on rosters and plaques, but in the values they carry forward each day. For the community, he will be remembered as one of the good ones—one of the few who make the world better just by being in it.

Plans for a memorial service are underway, with union members, friends, and family expected to gather in large numbers to celebrate a life that ended too soon but left behind a lasting impact.

Supporting the Family and Honoring His Memory

A community fundraiser has been launched to assist his family during this devastating time. Contributions will go directly toward supporting his wife and children, helping ensure that they are cared for, even in the absence of the man who was their foundation.

The IBEW Local 104 has also announced plans to honor his memory through a dedicated annual scholarship in his name—one that will go to aspiring electricians or union members’ children who reflect the same spirit of service and leadership that defined his life.

Final Thoughts: A Loss Beyond Measure

To those who loved him, this loss feels immeasurable. There is no replacing a man like him. And yet, there is also something deeply eternal about the impact he had. In the kindness of his children, the strength of his union brothers, and the resilience of the family he built and cherished—his spirit will live on.

In the words of one neighbor: “Some people leave footprints on your heart. He left them on our entire town.”

As Kingston mourns, it also remembers. And in that remembrance, his story continues—not just as one of tragedy, but of love, purpose, and an enduring example of how one life can quietly shape an entire community.