Posted December 11, 2025

Retired Deacon James Mahar, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 80.

Deacon Mahar was ordained on June 4, 2011, by His Eminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. He was assigned to Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Norristown, where he remained until his retirement in July 2020.

Deacon Mahar was born on January 18, 1945, to the late James and Barbara (née Brunner) Mahar in Albany, New York. He graduated from Siena College, Loudonville, with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, and a master’s degree in computer science in 1967. He worked at Unisys Corporation as a Systems Analyst until his retirement.

Deacon Mahar is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sharon (nee: Schinner). He is also survived by his three daughters: Kathy, Tricia, Jennifer,  a son Peter Mahar, nine grandchildren, and three brothers. He was predeceased by his son, the late John Mahar.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, beginning at 9:15 AM followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at Mother of Divine Providence Church, 333 Allendale Road, King of Prussia. The principal celebrant and homilist will be Most Reverend Christopher R. Cooke.  Concelebrants will be Reverend Thomas J. Gardner and Reverend Richard J. Smith. Deacon assisting at the liturgy are Deacon Mark Dillon and Deacon Gregory Maskarinec. Interment will be private.