BRAINTREE -- James F. Driscoll, executive director of the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 30 at the age of 71 after a battle with a rare form of cancer.

The four diocesan bishops of Massachusetts issued a statement mourning Driscoll's passing on Aug. 31.

"Today we mourn the passing of James F. Driscoll, recently retired executive director of the Massachusetts Catholic Conference. Appointed in 2011, Jim led the public policy ministry for the four Catholic dioceses of Massachusetts effectively for 15 years before retiring earlier this year due to health considerations. He served with great dedication and was committed to the mission of the Church and its important public responsibility on a number of critical issues that impact the Catholic community and wider society. Jim was widely respected by his colleagues in dioceses across the country," read the statement, signed by Archbishop Richard G. Henning of Boston, Bishop Robert J. McManus of Worcester, Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha of Fall River, and Bishop William D. Byrne of Springfield.

"In particular, we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Jim's family, especially his four children who loved and greatly admired their dad. We remember in prayer today all who mourn his passing and ask the Lord to comfort them during this time of loss, knowing in full confidence that Jim has gone home to God," the bishops said.

Driscoll was the third of seven children of John T. and Jean M. Driscoll. He was raised in Dorchester at St. Gregory's Parish, going on to attend Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood and Providence College before earning his law degree from Suffolk University. During his career, he served as legal counsel in the Office of the State Treasurer and assistant director of the State Lottery Commission. In 2009, he became general counsel for the Office of the State Auditor, a role he served in before being appointed to the MCC in 2011.

Driscoll was a resident of Scituate, where he coached youth sports teams, volunteered at St. Mary of the Nativity Parish, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his siblings: Jack, Bill, Jean, Paul, Maureen, and Rob; his four daughters, Kelly J. Driscoll and partner Mike of Canton, Katie D. Buttaro and husband Andrew of Cohasset, Jenny A. Driscoll and partner Dave of Cambridge, and Molly J. MacDonald and her husband Sean of Cohasset; and five grandchildren, Anna, Clare, and Madeline Buttaro; Ronan Sullivan; and Sophie MacDonald; as well as many nieces and nephews.

His funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Mary of the Nativity on Sept. 4.