PORTSMOUTH—James Henry Finnegan, Jr., 75, passed away September 6, 2025. He was born in Portsmouth to the late James Henry Finnegan, Sr. and Frances Allen Finnegan.

Jim retired from Portsmouth Social Services after 30 years of unselfish service and then continued his career by helping other Social Service localities, Norfolk and Newport News.   Jim graduated from Churchland High School and Old Dominion University. He was instrumental in Social Security Offset (PSRS) campaign in Portsmouth, VA.

At an early age, Jim found his passion for music, the guitar and the guitar synth; his music career began.  Mayor McCheese, as he liked to be called, played in the bands; The Regents, Topper, El Kabong, and London just to name a few.  Jim had a talent of making you feel important, he loved people, but most of all he loved to make music.  He wrote and produced many of his own songs and helped others with their musical projects.  Jim made lifelong friends in the music industry and while playing basketball at the Portsmouth YMCA.

He is survived by his miracle daughter, Lauren E. Finnegan, and sister, Diane E. Kirrane; Parker E. Finnegan, his faithful puppy companion; and many friends and bandmates. Jim will be missed by anyone who know him.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 17, at Foster Funeral Home, 1926 High St., Portsmouth. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim's name to the Leukemia Foundation . Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.