John J. Finnegan, 86, of Dorchester, and Naples, FL, and many summers in Manomet, passed away on March 31 surrounded by family. He was one of nine children of the late Julia and Senator Joseph Finnegan of Dorchester. He was predeceased by sisters Anne and Patricia and brothers Thomas, Joseph, and David. He is survived by siblings Stephen, Eleanora Golden, and Julie Matzel.
John was the beloved husband of Betty (Dunn) for 62 years and a devoted father to Helena and Elizabeth. He was a proud grandfather to Sean, Katherine, and Lauren and a delighted great-grandfather to Emlyn, Jay, and Norah. John was also a loving uncle and a steady presence to many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
He attended St. Ann’s Grammar School in Dorchester and graduated from Cathedral High School and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. A New England School of Law graduate, he was a practicing attorney throughout his professional life.
His passion for protecting vulnerable populations and preserving public lands led him to government service.
John was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1966 and served from 1967 until 1981.
That year, he was nominated for the state auditor’s position, won re-election, and served until he retired in 1987.
Throughout his career, John diligently pursued services and accessibility for seniors, veterans, and individuals with mental health conditions and disabilities. He led the transformation of Dorchester’s Keystone and Cable factories into quality senior housing. Working with colleagues and community advocates, he helped to reclaim and revitalize the Neponset River waterfront, creating accessible parks and trails that connected Dorchester and Mattapan to greater Boston. He introduced zero-based budgeting, balanced the state budget, and, as state auditor, founded the State Auditor’s Institute while professionalizing the office with federal accounting standards.
Grounded in faith and family, John always prioritized time with loved ones. He and Betty enjoyed traveling, boating, and camping, often exploring new places and spending time with family and friends. They spent over 50 summers in Manomet, where John had worked during his college years at the Mayflower Hotel.
After moving to Naples, FL, John continued his law practice in Boston, supported Betty’s real estate business, and chaired the Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade for 10 years, helping to grow it into a nationally recognized event. He loved the water and was an active member – and later commodore – of the Naples Cruise Club.
In retirement, John and Betty embraced their new life and built lasting friendships, joined community events, enjoyed golf, swimming, and bocce, and hosted many family gatherings.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. Peter’s Church in Plymouth on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m.
In place of flowers, donations can be made to Avow Hospice at 1095 Whippoorwill Ln, Naples, FL 34105.