James Lee Metrano

James Lee Metrano, lovingly known as “Lee,” age 86, of Reading, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026.

Born on January 8, 1940, in Woburn, Massachusetts, Lee grew up with a strong sense of duty and adventure. At just sixteen years old, he joined the National Guard and later went on to serve in the United States Navy.  Serving as a radioman on two destroyer escorts, he skillfully communicated through Morse code on the U.S.S. Tills and then on the U.S.S Cromwell.

After his military service, Lee began a long and dedicated career as an offset printing specialist, mastering the craft of four-color print. Later in his career he worked for the Sisters of St. Paul printing beautifully detailed religious books, always taking great pride in his work. Following his retirement from printing, Lee remained active and connected to the outdoors, working as a park ranger for the Trustees at Coolidge Reservation, and spending many hours on the water servicing moorings in Manchester-by-the-Sea.

It was after his time in the service that Lee met the love of his life, his beloved wife, Pudgie. In a story he cherished, he took her to her high school prom—marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion.

Lee was truly a gentleman, known for his kind nature and warm spirit. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, playing the harmonica, and playing the organ. He especially loved spending time on his sail boat where his skills & knowledge were second to none. Above all, Lee treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and happiness.

Lee is survived by his devoted wife, Pudgie Metrano, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage; his brother David and wife Janie; his children: daughter Sage Metrano; son Keith Metrano and wife Kristina Metrano; and son Glen Metrano and wife Dina Metrano. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Ariana Croft and husband Cody Croft, Alexa Metrano and partner Aaron Golub, Anthony Metrano, Erika Metrano and fiancé Troy Anderson, Nicolas Metrano, Christopher Metrano, and Joseph Metrano. He was also a great-grandfather to Isla James and Calvin Lee Croft who carry his name on.

Lee also held a special place in his heart for his adopted grandchildren: Nicholas Imprescia, Richard Imprescia, and Olivia Burger.

How lucky are we to have someone in our life that makes saying goodbye so difficult. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and gentle soul.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Lee's Family on Tuesday, April 14th from 9am - 10:30am in the Barile - Cota Family Funeral Home, 335 Park Street NORTH READING (corner of Park St. & RT 28, North Reading at Reading Line).  Parking attendants are available.

A Funeral Mass Celebrating Lee's Eternal Life will be held on Tuesday, April 14th at 10:30am in Saint Agnes Church, 186 Woburn Street Reading.  Interment with Military Honors will take place at Wood End Cemetery, Reading.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Lee's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by referring to the link below.

For more information, www.facebook.com/BarileFamilyFuneralHome