Foley, James (Spud)

James 'Spud' Foley stepped in as superintendent of parks in 1957, under Mayor Francis Collins. First he worked as assistant to then Mayor Collins, starting in 1950. He served as superintendent of parks and shade tree department until his retirement in 1994.

Under Foley's tenure, Salem's extensive park system was developed. He ensured that they remained accessible and improved over time.

Foley grew up in Salem, in Ward 4 where his nickname 'Spud' developed because he had a larger than average head as a boy.

He suffered a stroke in 1993, so unfortunately he was too sick to have a retirement party. He passed away 3 years later, in 1996.

See Also

Vertical File in Salem Collection - Parks and Playgrounds

"Foley retires after 44 years with the city" Salem Evening News, Oct. 31, 1994, p. 9

"James 'Spud' Foley is dead at 79" Salem Evening News, Aug 26, 1996, p. C3