To the Cotter Family,

I am deeply sorry for your loss. Coach Cotter was a truly remarkable man. I am a Quincy resident and a Catholic Memorial graduate. I would bump into Coach around Quincy or at one of our games back when I was in high school. Even though I was one of the “enemies”, he always asked how I was and how things were going. He always had a piece of athletic advice as well as personal advice. He would ask me how my parents were, knowing my mom from the Egg & I restaurant and brother who was a BC High student at the time. He was a class act. After graduation I would go to a game or two between the 2 schools and he would always ask me how St. Anselm was, how I was doing in school and then later how was work going. Coach Cotter saw me as another young man no different than one of his own students or athletes and for that I am eternally grateful. The CM community is dealing with a loss of one of it’s greats, Joe Hurley, as well. In reflecting on that you realize the impact that your teachers, coaches and mentors had on you when you were a teenager. Unfortunately, you don’t always realize that when you are young and in their presence. I was lucky enough to have crossed paths with Coach Cotter. He was a terrific example of class, good humor, was a great advisor and truly a caring spirit. I am a much better person and coach for the time I was able to have with Coach Cotter. “The Street of Heaven are too crowded with Angels tonight”!

Dear Agnes, Grace, Kelly and Michael

Please know how saddened we are to learn of Jim’s passing. A legend in his time . . . . and given the beautiful book written about him . . . . a legend for all times!! Jim exemplified for all who knew him strength; courage; determination; and deep, constant faith in Our Lord. His efforts to “put up the good fight” were a lesson to all of us. Those of us who were fortunate enought to be at the two events regarding his book have memories and lessons to last a life time. He was an idol to so many during his life; and a model and icon during the time of his illness. He truly set forth high standards on how to “die with dignity.”

We know Jim received a lot of support; but you, his family, were stellar. What a priceless gift he had in the love shown him by his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and his siblings.

We send you our deepest sympathies and pray that your faith will sustain you through this difficult time. Jim was a great man; and surely our Lord will welcome him into heaven.

With love and prayers – Carmen and Carol

I only know some of those Jim leaves behind. They remain just a phone call away even after many years of silence. The ones that Coach Cotter nurtured~his family. I am so grateful to have shared in life with them.
I also know that life for the Coach begins anew with his God and those awaiting his arrival. I hope Danny gets a chance to toss a few with him and the team.
I love you, Gracie. The hole will not be an easy fill, but life is for living.
Nancy

So very sorry for your loss. Such a wonderful loving & caring person. My family knew him from his days as a student. He was a classmate of my brother (Carmine Martignetti). My dad was a also involved in the football program working with the players. My son Stephen also had the pleasure of knowing him while he was at B.C.High. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched. Anita Maloney. God Bless you.

Dear Agnes,
I want to send my profound sympathy to you and your family after having learned of your Jim’s passing yesterday. He fought a most courageous battle with ALS. I have no doubt that you were at his side always and matched his courage with yours. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Fondly,
Barbara Nowell-Haines (BPS)

Dear Grace, Kelly and family

I am sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I can see everything about him reflected in you, and the great pride you felt for him. And rightfully so, as he effected the lives of hundreds of young men and colleagues for good. You’ve been blessed with a wonderful father. You’ll be in my prayers over these next few days ahead as you honor his memory. May you feel the arms of God surrounding you and holding you up, as friends and family gather to support you with love.

God Bless,
Donna

Dear Grace and Family

You are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. Praying God’s peace will fall freshly upon you.
God Bless
MJ Ercha Manning

Kelly, Grace and Michael,
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. It brought back memories of meeting you and him when I moved into my BC Dorm. I was immediately impressed with how close your family is and the support you give each other. I quickly learned how well-respected and admired your Dad was in the Boston College community. I am thinking of all of you at this difficult time from PA. I will keep you in my prayers for continued strength.
Take Care
Donna

Dear Grace, Kelly, and Michael,

Your dad’s obituary sits here on my desk with that soft smile
and direct gaze that takes me back to the 70’s and 80’s when
we were all a lot younger and the families enjoyed activities in
Weymouth…. school, baseball, friendships, and so much more.
You were all a part of our lives that we can only re-live in memory,
but what wonderful memories they are. Your Dad was a special
man to whom we all looked up. But you three are, too.It has been
a pleasure and privilege to watch you all grow into the people
you are today…people of whom he was justifiably proud. We are
sad that he suffered and know how hard it was for you, too. I only
know that if our David read the heavenly headlines announcing
Jim’s arrival, her would be there at those “pearly gates” with a
welcoming hand and smile for him. Blessings on you all…
with our love, Carlene and Gene

i still miss you papa