Dr. James Joseph Quaid

James Quaid, 91, of Grayslake, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026. He was born on April 14, 1935, in Chicago to Arthur and Mildred Quaid.

James was raised in what is now Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. His family had very modest means, and he often reflected on the hardships of his childhood. Those early experiences instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for hard work, humility, perseverance, and gratitude.

James was a  gifted and determined student. Through dedication and unwavering resolve, he continued his education at Marquette University School of Dentistry, earning his dental degree and beginning a career that reflected his commitment to serving others. His journey from a childhood of poverty to becoming a respected dentist was a testament to his perseverance, faith, and belief that education could transform a life.

James proudly served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961. He considered it a privilege to serve his country and carried a deep sense of patriotism throughout his life. His military service reflected the same values that defined him as a husband, father, dentist, and man of faith: duty, integrity, humility, and a commitment to serving others. He remained grateful for the opportunity to wear his country's uniform and took great pride in having answered the call to serve.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Leah; his parents, Arthur and Mildred Quaid; and his siblings, Rose Link (Jim), Barbara Nickel (Nick) Tomas (Nancy) and Arthur (Carol). James is survived by his loving children, Dr. James (Diane), Steven, Michael (Maureen), Susan (Dave), and Kelly; his cherished grandchildren, Christopher, Jessica (Conor), James (Kate), Colleen( Ceasar) , Robert (Leilani), Erin (Joseph), Jake (Casey), Harry (Maryam), Geno, Phoebe, Jackob, Samuel (Grace), and Alexander; and his precious great-grandchildren, Julian, Teagan, Conor, Quin, Kieran, Ian, Jackie, Leah, Joaquin, Isabella, James Eloise, Lily and Teddy.

James was a devoted husband. When Leah was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, he lovingly embraced the role of her primary caregiver. He faithfully honored the promise he had made to her—that she would never have to leave the home they had built together. Through extraordinary patience, sacrifice, and unwavering love, he cared for her each day, allowing her to remain surrounded by the comfort, familiarity, and treasured memories of home. His steadfast devotion to Leah was one of the greatest expressions of his faith, reflecting Christ's call to love faithfully, sacrificially, and without condition.

James was a devoted and loving grandfather who took immense pride and joy in his grandchildren. He never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and was always their biggest supporter and proudest cheerleader. Whether it was a sporting event, dance recital, art show, or special milestone, James was there in the audience, proudly watching and cheering them on. He loved sharing stories about his grandchildren and never missed a chance to tell others about the people they were becoming. His grandchildren knew they were deeply loved, cherished, and celebrated by their grandfather.

James was, above all else, a man of God. His Catholic faith was the foundation of his life, guiding his actions with quiet humility, generosity, and compassion. He lived his faith not only through daily attendance at Mass but through countless acts of service, believing that the greatest expression of love for God was caring for others.

One of James's greatest joys was tending his garden. With patience and dedication, he nurtured vegetables and flowers that reflected God's abundant blessings. He delighted in sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends, neighbors, and those in need. Much of the produce from his garden found its way to a Chicago soup kitchen, allowing something he had lovingly grown to nourish those facing hardship.

James also devoted many years to serving his community through Sertoma, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those living with mental illness. He believed that every person was created in God's image and deserved dignity, compassion, and opportunity.

James leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, selfless service, and unconditional love. He showed those around him that a life devoted to God is measured not by wealth or accomplishments, but by the countless acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion that continue to bless others long after we are gone.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 22333 W. Erhart Road, Mundelein, Illinois 60030, on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Interment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.