James W Cormier

James “Jim” Cormier, 80, entered into rest to be the with Lord on November 30, 2019, with his family by his side. Jim was born in Hartford, CT on July 19, 1939. He grew up in Hartford with his siblings, Bob, Norman, and Barbara. He raised his family in Connecticut and Massachusetts. He was a gentle soul with a generous heart.

As a young man, he joined the Air National Guard Reserves as a Medic and served 5 years. Jim was a man of many trades; mechanic, foreman, real estate agent wallpaper hanger, painter, and handyman. He also loved to work outdoors, landscaping, planting his annuals, or a massive vegetable garden on his farm in Mass. He was a country man at heart who thoroughly enjoyed listening and singing along with Jim Reeves, Don Williams, George Jones, Johnny Cash, and many other country oldies but goodies.

Jim retired in his late 60’s to St. Petersburg, FL, where he could spend his free time relaxing at one of his favorite places – The Beach. He just was not himself without a “Tan.” He also got to spend more time fishing, another favorite pastime, but only if the fish was a “Keeper & Good Eating…”

He did not stay idle for too long after retiring. He became vested in his retirement community, “The Tiffany” Board VP and later President over an 8-year period. He made significant impact during his tenure while running a tight ship. Many improvements to the building were accomplished; new roof, AC units, paint, covered parking repairs, and new drainpipes to mention a few. He had a knack for hunting out a bargain, whether it be for repair work or shopping for groceries – more bang for your buck.

Jim never hesitated to help someone in need, whether a relative or stranger. It was his nature. He even helped save a few lives in his days. A young mechanic was engulfed in flames after an explosion at the garage adjacent to where Jim worked. Jim sprang into action and doused the flames saving the young man from certain death. Years later in FL, Jim awoke at 3am from cries for help from an elderly woman who was being attacked with a knife. Jim sprang to action, called 911, and ran to help by grabbing and subduing the attacker until police arrived. Never once did he think twice about helping someone in need, even if it put his own life in jeopardy. He was a good man that will be greatly missed by many.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Denis and Edna Cormier of East Hartford, CT. and his brother, Norman Cormier of Enfield, CT. Jim is survived by his eldest daughter, Michelle (David) of Tampa, her mother Joyce of Somers, CT, daughter, Tamatha (Mike) of Largo, her mother, Patricia of St. Petersburg, FL, Kenneth and Ronald Jovin of Lebanon, CT, grandchildren, Garrett, Jenna, Amanda, and Ella “Puff.” He also leaves his brother, Robert "Bob" Cormier of Enfield, CT, sister, Barbara (Jack) Woodward of Columbia, CT, and special nephew, Robert “Robby” (Deb) Cormier of Tolland, CT, his mother, Terry (Ray) Moore, numerous nieces and nephews.

It gives his family great peace and comfort to know that Jim has been reunited with his parents and siblings beside our Lord in Heaven.

Flowers may be sent to Holy Cross Church or in lieu of flowers donations to Suncoast Hospice Foundation.