James Arthur Magennis

James Arthur Magennis, 85, the self-proclaimed ""Largest Leprechaun in Captivity"", passed away August 10, 2015, at Middlesex Hospital, surrounded by the loving family he created. He loved unconditionally, laughed heartily at himself, hugged every stranger and raised his mighty brawn only against injustice (and the Yankees). He was born on April 29, 1930 in Arlington, MA, the son of the late John and Vera (Silver) Magennis. He grew up in Wellesley, MA where he attended Wellesley High School and played all-state basketball and baseball. His studies at Northeastern University were interrupted by his service in the Air Force during the Korean War, after which he returned and graduated with a degree in business. He worked at GF Business Solutions for 31 years, during which he was very involved with the Hartford Chamber of Commerce and the Hartford JC's, following which he retired to a life of golf, travel, painting and time with his beloved family. His loving wife of 47 years, Claudette (Gagnon) Magennis predeceased him and he is survived by their five children and their families, James and Gina Magennis of Canton, Tom and Teri Magennis of Wethersfield, Cathleen Magennis Wyatt of Waterford, VA, Brian and Jackie Magennis of Pewaukee, WI, and Michele Magennis of Cromwell. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren, Meghan, Kelly, Michael, Andrew, Grant, Alisa, Sarah, Ford, Catherine, Erin, and Matthew, and the lovely, extended family brought into his life by his loving Partner, Judy Friend and her family. Judy has been such a wonderful addition to our family and we can't thank her enough for all the love, help and support she provided for our D.O.D (Dear Old Dad). The family is eternally grateful to the Good Samaritan who assisted Jim and Judy when he collapsed while driving on August 9th in Cromwell, and very grateful to the caring staff of the Middlesex Hospital Emergency Room and Hospice Unit. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Corpus Christi Church, 601 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield on Friday, August 14th, at 11 a.m. As are his wishes, the burial will be private, but all friends will be invited to a celebration of his life following the funeral. Friends may call Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the D'Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Blvd., Wethersfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The James Magennis Scholarship to support Student Artists, Dollars for Scholars, P.O. Box 290338, Wethersfield, CT 06129-0338. To share a memory of Jim with the family, please visit www.desopo.com.