James J. Barrett, 68, of Sebastian, FL and formerly of Mansfield, loving husband of the late Shirley (Newman) Barrett, peacefully passed away on Monday, April 13, 2009 in Florida with caring family by his side. Born in Brooklyn, NY on July 10, 1940, a son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Clark) Barrett, he had resided in Bolton for 20 years and Mansfield for 10 years prior to moving to Sebastian, FL last November.
Jim was a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran and a loyal and fan of UConn Women's basketball who supported them as a long-time season ticket holder. Jim was employed for over 20 years by CIGNA in Bloomfield, retiring as a Systems Analyst. Jim was also the long-time owner and operator of the former Sports Card Shop in East Hartford.
After retirement, Jim joined his wife as a courier. However, Jim will be remembered as dedicated in helping others with alcohol problems. 'Jim B' was very active with Alcoholics Anonymous for over 34 years and helped many achieve and maintain their sobriety. Along with his beloved wife and parents, Jim was predeceased by two brothers, Michael Barrett and Jody Barrett both formerly of East Hartford, and a grandson, Phillip Dyson Barrett. Jim is survived by three sons, Ronald Barrett of Manchester, Gary Barrett of Manchester, and Joseph Lagasse and his wife, Chrissy, of Melbourne, FL; two daughters, Robin Henne of Hampton Falls, FL, and Kimberly Macomber and her husband, Richard, of Coventry; nine special grandchildren, Kristen, Rachel, and Madison Lagasse, Saully Guanda, Nicole and Tara Henne, Robert Michaud, Alex and Rose Macomber; several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
Funeral services will be Monday (April 20) at 11:30 a.m. at the D'ESOPO-East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford with the Rev. Nicholas Cessaro officiating.
Private burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home chapel on Sunday (April 19) from 3-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim's memory may be made to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. For any on-line expressions of sympathy to the family please visit www.desopo.com.
