Father James Michael Breslin

Father James Michael Breslin passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at the rectory of Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Cape Charles, Virginia, where he had been the parish priest for 30 years.

Father Michael was born in Roanoke, Virginia on July 5, 1939, to John Breslin and Helen Gallagher Breslin. He was the youngest of four children. He was an altar boy from the time of his First Communion through high school and attended Catholic schools all twelve years. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as well as being in the Order of the Arrow. His interest in becoming a priest was piqued at a school retreat during his high school senior year.

Immediately after high school, he enrolled at St. Bernard Seminary and College in Alabama, where he earned a BS in philosophy. He then attended St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, from 1961-1965. He was ordained a priest at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Richmond on May 1, 1965.

His assignments were St. Bridget’s (Richmond), St. Ann’s (Arlington), Christ the King (Norfolk), Star of the Sea (Virginia Beach) and finally, St. Charles in 1995. He was recently recognized by Bishop Knestout for 60 years of service.

He is survived by nephews and nieces: Freddy Siewers (Betsy), Ann Meacham (Lee), Richie Siewers (Nancy), Lynne Sutton (Scott), Michael Siewers (Beth), David Breslin (Connie), Trish Pecorella (Michael), Susan Muench, brother-in-law Freddie Siewers, Jr. and sister-in-law Ann Breslin. He is also survived by numerous great nephews and great nieces. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Patrick Breslin and sisters, Mary Ann Breslin Siewers and Alice Breslin Muench; nephews Patrick, Gregory and David Muench.

A grateful thank you to the parish family who sent cards, brought food, supplies, took him to appointments, visited with, prayed for and with Father. The family would also like to recognize those (you know who you are!) who held almost nightly “family” dinners with a cocktail, of course, with Father the past few months. It brought him great joy in his final days. The family would also like thank the Four “Angels” who cared for Father in his final days.

A Viewing will be held on Friday, December 5th at 9AM at St. Charles Catholic Church, Cape Charles. The funeral Mass will be held at 1PM that same day with Bishop Knestout presiding. Immediately following, a reception will be held at The Pearl at the Oyster Farm. Interment in the Columbarium will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Father’s memory to St. Charles Church, 545 Randolph Avenue, Cape Charles, VA 23310. Father Michael was well loved, respected and will be so missed.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www. Doughtyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements made by Doughty Funeral Home in Exmore, Virginia.