James Merville Hart

James Merville Hart, 98, lovingly known as Jim, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2023, at his residence in Cheshire. He was the loving husband of the late Mary (Douglass) Hart. Jim was born on July 25, 1925, in Naugatuck to the late DeForrest and Ivy (King) Hart and was a longtime Cheshire resident.

A true family man, Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his beloved children: Robert Hart and his wife Cynthia, Susan (Hart) Johnson and her husband Timothy Cole and Douglas Hart and his wife Claire. Jim was a cherished brother to Judith Passeck, and a doting grandfather to Michelle Galarneau and her husband Andrew, Kristen Moreno and her fiancé Justin Debienski, Robert Hart, and Jack Hart. His memory will be cherished by his great-grandchildren, Marcel Galarneau, Charlotte Galarneau, Bryson Debienski, and Camden Debienski and his close family friend Greg McCarty. Along with his wife and parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother Robert Hart.

He was a graduate of Naugatuck High School and earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut. Jim's commitment to hard work was exemplified by his successful career in production control. He dedicated countless years to Lee Spring Manufacturing, where he excelled in his role and made lasting friendships with his colleagues. Jim proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Army-Air Force from 1943 - 1946.

Outside of work, Jim actively contributed to his community. He was a dedicated member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Cheshire, where he served as an usher and selflessly volunteered his time. Jim enjoyed participating in the Air Force Round Table. He also enjoyed participating in the Valley Vagabonds, a senior citizens walk group and was a member of the Chat and Chew Club.

Jim's giving spirit extended beyond his immediate community. He volunteered at the New England Air Museum, where his knowledge and enthusiasm for aviation inspired visitors. He also generously lent his support to Interfaith Housing, recognizing the importance of providing safe and affordable housing to those in need. Jim had a special place in his heart for visiting the sick and brightening their days.

In his leisure time, Jim found solace in his hobbies. Whether it was fly fishing in serene waters, happily tending to his garden, or crafting beautiful woodwork, Jim found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was particularly fond of Groundhog Day, eagerly anticipating its arrival each year. Jim's unwavering loyalty and passion were also evident in his avid support for the UCONN Women's Basketball team.

A memorial service in celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 10:00 A.M., at St. Peter's Episcopal Church 59 Main Street in Cheshire. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight P.O. Box L-4016 Columbus, OH 43260-4016 (www.honorflight.org). The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire 615 south Main Street has care of arrangements. For additional information or to leave words of sympathy please visit www.fordfh.com.

Find out if pre-planning is right for you.
https://www.fordfh.com/planning-ahead