Newburyport - Newburyport - James J. "Jim" Brocato, 79, a Newburyport resident since 1988 and formerly of Lawrence, MA, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025.

Born on February 20, 1946, in Lawrence, MA, Jim was the son of the late Harry A. and Anna M. (Polizzotti) Brocato. Raised in Lawrence, he graduated from Central Catholic High School with the Class of 1963 and went on to earn a degree in Civil Engineering from Merrimack College in 1967.

Jim began his career with the City of Lawrence as an Assistant City Engineer before joining the Division of Capital Planning for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He later founded his own business, working with cities and towns to manage municipal construction projects. Jim concluded his career at Northern Essex Community College, where he served as Director of Engineering Services for Buildings and Grounds.

He was predeceased by his longtime partner of 25 years, Jane Anderson, who passed away in 2018.

Jim is survived by his stepson, Adam Anderson, and his wife, Lisa, of Stratham, NH, along with their children, Sara and Reece Anderson. Endlessly proud of his granddaughters, Jim cherished every moment spent with them—their accomplishments and love brought him immense joy. He also had 15 first cousins, who were more like brothers and sisters to him, and with whom he shared countless family gatherings filled with love, laughter, and lots of food.

Jim will be deeply missed by his family and friends, whose lives were brightened by his warmth, humor, and kindness.

Services will be held privately at the family's request. Donations in memory of Jim may be made to Boston Children's Hospital. Assistance with arrangements was by Direct Cremation of the Seacoast. An online guestbook is available at www.DirectCremationSeacoast.com.