Essex, Vermont - It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of James S. McSweeney III at the age of 58 on June 27, 2026. James passed away at UVM Medical Center, surrounded by his loved ones.  James was born in Burlington, Vermont, on January 1, 1968, to his mother, Margaret (Ploof) McSweeney, and his father, James S. McSweeney II. He attended Milton High School and graduated.  On September 11, 2007, James married Paula (Bannister) McSweeney in the town of Milton. They happily stood by each other's side ever since, creating so many wonderful memories together.

James enjoyed family gatherings, being outside on beautiful days, and fishing at Georgia High Bridge. He loved going to garage sales, being a handyman, sitting on TikTok, and talking to people about the political views he had seen on TikTok that day. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. James will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

James leaves behind his loving wife, Paula McSweeney, and five beautiful children: James McSweeney IV and his wife, Katie (Fitzgerald) McSweeney; Brianna McSweeney; Tiffany (Hamlin) Catella and her husband, Josh Catella; Sara Hamlin and her wife, Tanisha (Salter) Hamlin; and Donald Bushey Ill and his partner, Makayla Bessette. He also leaves behind his three sisters and two brothers: Kim Robinson and her husband, Eddie Robinson; Tammy Fleming, whose husband, Ronald Fleming is predeceased; Christina Raymond and her husband, Todd Raymond; Shannon McSweeney and his wife, Amanda McSweeney; and Adam McSweeney and his wife, Dawn McSweeney. All of these family members will cherish his memory and will deeply miss and love him.

James was predeceased by his parents, James and Margaret McSweeney; his brother, Kevin McSweeney; his sisters, Darlene Wright and Tina Nichols; and, let's not forget, his favorite dog, Brutis.

May James rest in peace. This is not goodbye; it is simply, "We'll see you later."

Paula McSweeney will keep everyone informed with details regarding James's celebration of life.