In Memoriam: The Court Honors the Life and Legacy of Retired Judge James J. Sweeney

It is with a sense of profound loss that the Eighth District Court of Appeals recognizes the passing of retired Judge James J. Sweeney

Judge Sweeney was elected to the Eighth District Court of Appeals in 2000 where he remained as an esteemed jurist until his retirement in January 2013. Prior to his election to the appellate court, Judge Sweeney worked as a U.S. Postal mail carrier, an Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecuting Attorney, an Assistant Ohio attorney General and was a judge on the bench of the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas for many years. Judge Sweeney was a veteran who served honorably in the United States Army.

Judge Sweeney was a person of exceptional character – even-tempered, humble, a good listener and a compassionate human being. He maintained an unwavering sense of justice and, despite his reserved nature, consistently served as a strong leader on the Court. Judge Sweeney was an avid reader with a quick wit and ready smile and was beloved and respected by his colleagues, friends and the entire community.

Judge Sweeney’s legacy of fairness, integrity and kindness will continue to guide all of us who follow in his footsteps. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him during his remarkable life.

The Court will observe a moment of silence in its upcoming proceedings in tribute to the Honorable Judge James J. Sweeney.