PawSox President Jim Skeffington dies at 73
By News Staff
Pawtucket Red Sox President Jim Skeffington died while jogging Sunday night in Barrington, according to a spokesperson for PawSox.
Skeffington, 73, has been a key figure in the effort to bring the PawSox to Providence and put them in a proposed $85 million stadium on the 195 redevelopment land.
Skeffington is an attorney at Locke & Lord LLP where he helped lead the way in the development of places such as the Rhode Island Convention Center, the Providence Westin Hotel, and the Providence Place Mall.
He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trustees at both Bryant University and Providence College.
Skeffington’s family released a statement Monday afternoon about his passing, “It is with profound sadness that our family announces the unexpected passing of James J Skeffington Sr. on Sunday evening. Jim was blessed with extraordinary talents which he used to serve the community he loved. He was a legend in the legal community and an advisor to business leaders and government officials for nearly 50 years. Yet, despite the demands of a busy law practice, he made the time to serve on the Boards of some of Rhode Island’s most important educational and charitable institutions. And, he made it part of his life to reach out to individuals enduring difficult times in everyday life. He quietly came to the aid of many, asking nothing in return. The essence of Jim’s life was a strong devotion to his faith, to his family, and to his friends. With boundless energy and enthusiasm Jim enriched the lives of all around him. We have been overwhelmed by the kind thoughts and messages from so many friends. We ask God’s blessing for Jim and all who loved him.”
An outpouring of support, positive words, and condolences were released in statements Monday afternoon by Rhode Island public figures on Skeffington’s passing:
In a statement, Rhode Island House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello said, “I am deeply saddened by the stunning news of the passing of Jim Skeffington. He was a true legend in the Rhode Island legal and business communities, having a hand in nearly every major project in our state for decades. Jim was a gentleman in every sense of the word and a real champion for all that is good about Rhode Island. It is tragic that he did not live long enough to see his vision for the Pawtucket Red Sox come to fruition, but he left a legacy that will live on for generations to come. He loved Rhode Island, and I will miss my friend.”
“It was with great sadness that I learned of Jim’s passing. Jim was dedicated to his community and his family. His commitment to building a stronger economy in Rhode Island will have a lasting impact on our state. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones,” said Governor Gina Raimondo.
Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza said, “I am very saddened to learn of the passing of James Skeffington and extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Jim was a Providence native who reached the highest levels of professional accomplishment but never lost touch with his community. He cared deeply about Providence and was one of our city’s leading business and civic champions. We will always remember his commitment and contributions to our community.”
Pawtucket Mayor Donald R. Grebien explained, “While the City of Pawtucket recognizes that we may have had a difference of opinion as it pertains to the Pawtucket Red Sox and continuing to play at McCoy Stadium, the City offers its most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Mr. Skeffington’s family during this difficult time. Mr. Skeffington’s passing is a reminder to us all how precious and fragile life can be.”
“I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Jim Skeffington. Jim and I worked together at Edwards & Angell in the 1980s. He was a brilliant lawyer and a genuine, kind person. Jim was passionate about Rhode Island and dedicated to trying to make our state a better place. His civic-minded spirit will be missed by all who knew him and whose lives he touched,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.
“Jim Skeffington was a visionary and a gifted attorney. When our company was negotiating to move its headquarters to downtown Providence, Jim played a crucial, behind-the-scenes role making sure the project came to fruition. I recall him literally running between the offices of the different parties to keep the deal on track. When Jim got involved, his enthusiasm, energy, and boundless good humor seemed to propel projects forward almost out of his sheer will to do so. On a personal note, I valued his guidance. You could rely on the fact that his advice was always spot on. IGT has lost a good friend and valued advisor while Rhode Island has lost a great Leader,” said IGT North America Chairman, Donald R. Sweitzer.
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