James Dean Rafferty

James Dean “Jimmy” Rafferty, 72, of Grantville, died November 14, 2010 at Midland Hospice House.

He was born in Dover, Kansas on March 11, 1938 the son of Vincent Charles and Helen (Brock) Rafferty.

He was retired in 1994 as a Computer Operator for Santa Fe Railway Company where he had 33 years of service.

James’ hobbies included pool, fishing, camping, baseball, football and watching all types of sports.  He was a member of the Catholic faith.

He married Linda Beckwith in Topeka, Kansas on September 13, 1985.  She survives of the home.  He is also survived by two sons:  Steven Scott Rafferty of Lawrence, Todd Allen Rafferty of Topeka, two daughters, Sheryl Lea Lang of Perry and Pamela Kay Featherly of Perry, two step sons, Carl Boyette of Valley Falls and Timothy Stone of Hoyt, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, five step grandchildren and four step great grandchildren.  He is also survived by his siblings, Calvin P. Rafferty of Topeka, Donald W. Rafferty of Longmont, CO., and Darlene E. Schreiner of Topeka.  He was preceded in death by three brothers, Byron, Gerald and Harold Rafferty.

James will lie in state where the family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home with a rosary at 10:30 a.m.  Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.  Interment will follow in Grantville Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care Inc. and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas  66603.