Southbridge: James P. Hanlan, 79, of Alpine Dr., passed away Saturday, Aug. 17th, in Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT, after an illness.

His wife of 42 years, Gaye D. (Francis) Hanlan, passed away in 2014.  He leaves his two sons, George J. Hanlan of Spencer and James O. Hanlan and his wife Erika of Northborough; his daughter, Janet E. Hanlan of Southbridge; and his four grandchildren, James Liam Hanlan, Violet Madeleine Hanlan, Atticus Paul Hanlan and Harrison Patrick Hanlan.  He was born in Worcester the son of the late George and Cecilia (Tivnan) Hanlan.  James received his bachelors degree in History from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester and went on to receive his Masters degree from Clark University and his PHD in History from Clark University in Worcester.

James was a professor of history at Worcester Polytechnic Institute for 47 years, specializing in American labor history.  He also taught classes at Anna Maria College and Worcester State University.  He was a founding member of the New England Historical Association and served as executive secretary for 20 years.  James was a devoted member of St. Mary's Parish (now St. John Paul II Parish) for many years.  He served as a Eucharistic Minister at the parish and was a longtime member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society at the parish.  He was a former Boy Scout Leader for the Boy Scout Troop 160 in Southbridge.  James enjoyed travelling and travelled all over Europe and the United States.

His funeral will be held on Friday, Aug. 23rd, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 11:00am in St. Mary's Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 263 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery, Worcester.  Calling hours in the funeral home will be held on Thursday, Aug. 22nd, from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Second Chance Animal Shelter, 111 Young Rd, East Brookfield, MA 01515.