Obituary of James W Steadman

James W. Steadman, 83, of Woburn, MA, and retired owner of Steadman & Sons Trucking, passed away on the morning of Friday, March 14, 2025, after a long illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Jimmy was born in Malden, MA, he was one of three children born to James and Mary Steadman. He grew up in Malden and Medford. At the age of 22, he enlisted in the US Army and served in the 1st Calvary Armored Division during the Vietnam War. It was there, during infantry training, that he met Mike Dowd and remained friends for life. Jim was honorably discharged after two years of service, holding the rank of SP4 and earning the Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Expert Marksman Badge.

After returning home, Jimmy wasted no time starting his own business, Steadman & Sons Trucking. He purchased a 10-wheel dump truck, which became his pride and joy. His trucks, with their signature white wheels and red centers, earned him the nickname "White Wheels." Jimmy loved the freedom of running his own business, and he worked on major projects like the Big Dig and the Deer Island Treatment Plant. He hauled materials, plowed snow, and did just about everything in between, working well into his 70s before finally hanging up his keys.

A man with a love for anything with an engine, Jim was always fixing his trucks and lending a hand to truckers with their equipment. He was always just a phone call away when family, friends, and neighbors with car repairs.

Jimmy met his beloved wife, Peggy, through mutual friends, and they were married in 1967. They lived in Billerica for the first five years of their marriage before settling into their forever home in Woburn in 1972. Together, they enjoyed many years of traveling—visiting places like Ireland, the Netherlands, and many trips to Aruba. They also shared a love for bowling and were active members of several leagues.

As a father and grandfather, Jimmy was a constant source of love and wisdom. He enjoyed working alongside his children on various projects, always eager to share his knowledge. He was a proud supporter of his kids' and later his grandkids' sports events, cheering them on at every opportunity. You could often find Jimmy assisting the pit crews as honorary Crew Chief for his good friend Preston Smith at the Epping Dragway. Jimmy was also a member of the Minuteman Dart League and even earned the title of State Champions in the Spring of 2007.

Those who knew Jimmy will remember him as the strong, silent type with a sharp sense of humor. He was known for his one-liners and quick wit, and he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Jimmy will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jim was the beloved husband of the late Margaret “Peggy” Rose (Hart) Steadman. He was the loving father of Paul Steadman of Wilmington, Jamie Steadman of Woburn, and Melinda Steadman of Woburn. He was the brother of Patricia Shapiro & her husband Gerald of Medfield and the late Richard Steadman & his surviving wife Evelyn of Burlington. He was the proud grandfather of Michael Steadman, Sean Steadman, Ashley DeBruin & her husband Christiaan, Brian Steadman & his wife Rachel, and Luke DeRosa. He was the great grandfather of Odin Steadman, Aurora Steadman, and Jaxon DeBruin. Jim was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, on Thursday, March 20 from 4-7pm. A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 21 at 11am at the Woodbrook Cemetery on Salem Street in Woburn.

Memorials in Jim’s name may be made to the wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org,

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net