James Connery Rafferty was born on August 17,1946 in Chicago, IL. and passed away peacefully on June 16, 2024 just shy of his 78th birthday. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many. He was witty, sarcastic, funny, generous, mechanically gifted, a car enthusiast and a hell raiser.  He had a strong moral compass, compassionate nature, and unflinching dedication to honesty no matter how blunt or jarring the delivery.  Jim was known for selflessly offering help to anyone in need.  Whether human or animal, he was also known for taking in and caring for the misfits, strays, and helpless.

Jim was the 2nd child of his late parents, Paul G. and Pauline K. Rafferty. The family relocated from Chicago to Dallas in 1947 and settled in Oak Cliff. Jim attended St. Cecelia Catholic School, where he was a Boy Scout. In 1959, the family of now 7 moved further north to be closer to the "new" Jesuit. Jim graduated from Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas in 1965. He attended North Texas State University for a short time, before enlisting in the Navy in fall of 1966 rather than wait to be drafted. Jim was stationed on Midway Island during his Naval service. After his Service, he returned to the Dallas area and began a successful career in the electronics industry.

He married his first wife Stephanie Tris (Totsye) in the 70's.  They had a son, Jay Rafferty.  In 1989 he married his second wife Sharon Lynch.  By 1993 they had 3 children, Kelly, Keegan, and Klinton (Chance) Rafferty.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his son Klinton Chance Rafferty, his brother Paul G Rafferty, Jr. and his brother Bill Rafferty. He is survived by his daughter Kelly Rafferty, sons Keegan Rafferty and Jay Rafferty.  He is also survived by 5 grandchildren Caileigh, Klinton, Chance, Lillian, and Benjamin.

If you wish to make a donation in his memory, please select a charity that is meaningful to you.