James H. Fafalla

Jim was born on January 24, 1943, in New London to Sebastian Fafalla and Margaret Silva Fafalla. A lifelong resident of Old Lyme, he was proud to be part of a family whose roots in the town spanned six generations. He loved sharing stories about the town’s history and had a deep appreciation for the community that shaped his life, including his time as a volunteer fire fighter.

Jim retired from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center after more than 20 years of dedicated service. Over the years he also held a variety of other jobs, always known for his strong work ethic and willingness to lend a hand.

Jim had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life. He was a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New York Giants and loved watching games with his family. He was also a dedicated supporter of Lyme-Old Lyme High School athletics and could almost always be found in the stands, rarely missing a game and proudly cheering on the local teams. He enjoyed the stories of Sherlock Holmes, classic Western movies and television shows, and the music of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley.

Above all else, Jim cherished his family. He shared nearly 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Anne Joyce Fafalla; the couple would have celebrated their anniversary on April 23. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Mark Fafalla and wife Kate Fafalla; his daughter Maria Belval and husband Raymond Belval; and his daughter Marybeth Abbatello and husband Craig Abbatello. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Zachary Belval, Lauren Belval, Luke Fafalla, Brooke Fafalla, Brandon Fafalla, Sebastian Abbatello, Evan Abbatello, and Oliver Abbatello.

He is also survived by his cousins Larry and Carol Silva, Shirley Latham, Barbara Hull, and Manuel and Ann Silva; his in-laws Anthony and Lillian Joyce and Mary Joyce Wagner; as well as many nieces and nephews and their families.

His greatest joy was watching his grandchildren grow. He rarely missed the opportunity to attend their sporting events, proudly cheering them on from the sidelines. He loved passing along his lifelong devotion to the Boston Red Sox and New York Giants, sharing games together and celebrating every victory. His family will also remember many special moments together, trips to Boston and New York, dancing at family weddings, relaxing on the front porch, and gathering to celebrate holidays together. They will fondly remember the familiar smell of his pipe and the sound of him cracking open a crisp Diet Coke- always without ice.

Jim was a devout Catholic who faithfully attended Mass each week and carried his faith quietly but deeply throughout his life.

His family will remember him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love for Old Lyme, strong faith, and joy in life’s simple traditions created memories that will live on for generations.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 27, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m at Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Road Old Lyme, CT. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on March 28, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Church. Interment will follow at Duck River Cemetery and a reception will be held at Christ the King Church.