James F. Gilbrook, at 74

James F. “Jim” Gilbrook, of Scituate, formerly a longtime resident of Hull, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 16, 2026. He was 74.

He was born in Boston to Mary (Gartland) and John Gilbrook and was raised in Dorchester. As a child, Jim spent most of the year in Dorchester, but summers were always reserved for the family home on Strawberry Hill in Hull. It was his true home away from home, and he even had the opportunity to briefly attend Hull High School.

After completing his education, Jim had a number of jobs in or around Hull that he often reflected on even later in life, including working for the DPW, serving as an off-season caretaker on Georges Island, and a summertime police officer in Hull. In 1971, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served as a plane captain on a flight line for four years. He often referred to his time in the Navy as the greatest experience of his life.

Following his service, Jim put his Navy training and mechanical skills to work in a number of positions, including building boats at Boston Whaler and fixing large air compressors at Ingersoll Rand, before beginning a long career as a maintenance mechanic at Carney Hospital. Working at his hometown hospital was a great source of pride for Jim and provided him with countless memorable stories he loved sharing with family and friends.

Jim’s life revolved around his family. He cherished his role as a father and grandfather and found his greatest joy in time spent surrounded by those he loved. In his spare time, he could often be found at home tending to his yard and garden and taking on projects like building a shed or fixing one of his many boats. Jim was also quick to offer help to others in fixing anything. When he wasn’t at home, he was in the place he always held closest to his heart – the town of Hull. He loved being on the water, whether fishing, boating, or simply spending time along the Gut or at A Street Pier.

Devoted father of Michael Gilbrook and his wife, Jessica, of Hull; Lori McKinnon and her husband, Thomas, of Hull; John Gilbrook and his wife, Deirdre, of Scituate; and Daniel Gilbrook of Weymouth. Beloved husband of Sharon Hillier Gilbrook of East Bridgewater. Loving brother of Regina Fernald and her husband, Bob, of Plymouth; Mary Ann Peaslee and her late husband, Paul, of Hull; and Bill Gilbrook of Hull. Adoring grandfather of Colin Gilbrook, Alex Pease, Seamus Gilbrook, River McKinnon, Wade McKinnon, Saoirse Gilbrook, and Isla Gilbrook. Also survived by his former wife, Patricia Young Gilbrook, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Predeceased by his parents, Mary Catherine (Gartland) and John Frederick Gilbrook, and his siblings John Gilbrook, Paul Gilbrook, Georgiene Melchione, and Patty MacKay.

Visiting hours were held on Tuesday at the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home in Hingham. A funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church was held on Wednesday, followed by cremation.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s name may be made to South Shore Elder Services, 350 Granite Street, Suite 2303, Braintree, MA 02184.