James Michael Mead, beloved husband, father, dog grampy, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at his home in Bristol surrounded by his family. James was born Nov. 7,1945, in New Britain, Conn., son of John and Ruth Mead.

He is predeceased by his parents, his sister Gail Young, and his favorite Yankee scout Kelly Rodman. He is survived by his wife Nancy of 56 years; daughter Jennifer Mead of Bristol, son Russell Mead and his wife Jen of Burlington, Vt.; sister Margaret Mead of Plainville, Conn.; four grandkids Charlie, Shea, Ollie and Silas, as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, friends and neighbors.

James was born and raised in New Britain, attending New Britain High School and excelling as the speedy track star that he was!! After high school, he received his engineer training at Porter’s School of Design in Wethersfield, Conn., and joined the CT Army National Guard. He proudly served for six years from 1967-1973. He began his 37-year engineering career at The Wiremold Company in West Hartford, Conn., on Feb. 17,1969, as a tool and machine designer. The last 10 years he was a manufacturing engineer until his retirement on Feb. 17, 2006.

James was a man of his word, loyal to his friends and family, known for his quick wit and one-liners, attention to detail and a proud dad and dog grampy evident by his many shared stories with family and friends. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, New York Giants, UConn Men’s and Women’s Basketball as well as anything Jennifer and Russell Mead. During his retirement years he focused his attention on his master woodworking skills and built numerous one-of-a-kind pieces for family and friends in his workshop.

A very special thank you to Dr. Jeffrey Kamradt and the many other healthcare professionals that managed dad’s journey for the last nine and a half years. The care, comfort, confidence and compassion from these communities will never be forgotten. The Mead family is forever grateful for the constant love and support received from our family, friends and co-workers throughout these times.

A celebration of James’ life will be held on Friday, Jan. 17, at the O’Brien Funeral Home, 24 Lincoln Ave, Bristol, Conn. Calling hours will begin at 4 p.m. until a memorial tribute that will begin at 5:30 p.m. for anyone that would like to share stories and some of their favorite memories.

In lieu of flowers, in remembrance of James, our newest angel added to our outfield, please consider a random act of kindness. A donation may also be made in James’s honor to: The Prostate Cancer Foundation (https://www.pcf.org/) and/or his favorite non-profit group, The Kelly Rodman Baseball Foundation (https://www.thekellyrodmanbaseballfoundation.org/donate-now).

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit James’ tribute page at www.OBrien-FuneralHome.com.

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