The James A. Coogan Memorial Fund is now a permanent scholarship fund. Beginning in June 2026, an annual scholarship will be awarded in Jim Coogan’s name to a local student pursuing education beyond high school.
James A. Coogan moved to Wakefield in 1966 with his wife, Virginia, and their five children. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Coogan family was deeply involved in Wakefield schools and athletics. Jim was a devoted family man who cherished his seven grandsons and one granddaughter. A man of strength and humility, Jim showed his love through his actions every day of his life until his passing in 2017.
Jim attended Somerville High School, where he excelled in football and baseball. He proudly served his country as a Lance Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict. Jim began his law enforcement career in 1969 with the Metropolitan Police Department and later served with the Massachusetts State Police, retiring in 1994 after a long and distinguished career. While he never forgot his Somerville roots, Wakefield was truly his home.
The James A. Coogan Memorial Fund was established by his family and gives preference to a Wakefield High School student-athlete pursuing a career in law enforcement or public service.
Donations are encouraged to help the fund grow and expand the number of scholarships awarded.