Retired Johnson & Bell Shareholder, James "Jamie" Toohey recently passed away at the age of 82. He retired from the firm in June 2021.
Jamie was a lifelong Chicagoan. He attended St. Gertrude Catholic School on the city's North Side, graduated from Loyola Academy in Wilmette, earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame, and received his law degree from Northwestern University School of Law in 1969. He enjoyed a distinguished legal career with the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney's Office, then joined Ross & Hardies where he spent more than 25 years. Shortly after that firm merged with McGuireWoods, Jamie brought his practice to Johnson & Bell in 2005, and he remained a key part of our firm until his retirement. He was known for his sharp intellect, unwavering convictions, intensely competitive nature, and a strong dedication to his work. Yet, he is also remembered fondly for his spot-on Mick Jagger impersonation and great performance on the softball diamond.
At Johnson & Bell, Jamie described his practice as "defending companies in the automotive vehicle and parts industry in product liability, breach of warranty, and class action claims" and "the defense of asbestos-related disease claims against vehicle and equipment suppliers." J&B Chairman H. Patrick Morris said, "Jamie was a true believer and a steadfast advocate who never wavered in his commitment to defending his clients, all of whom were consistently well served by his dedication."
Our deepest condolences go out to Jamie's family, including his beloved wife of 43 years, Anne Toohey, his five children, Colleen Toohey, Jeanne Walters (Ken), Jake Toohey (Erin), Kevin Toohey (Serena), and Casey Buck (David); his sisters, Gael Hanson and Kathleen Egan; and his cherished grandchildren, Marissa, Gretchen, Nicholas, Emma, Rowan, Evelyn, James, Brennan, Cillian, Kieran, and Cameron.
May his memory be a blessing.
