James Walter Gordon

New London - James Walter Gordon, 92, passed away suddenly on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, with his wife by his side.

He was born on April 16, 1921, to James Walter and Minnie (Just) Gordon in Chicopee, Mass. He attended school there and enlisted in the Coast Guard and served in World War II. He was honorably discharged and returned to his family in Massachusetts.

He moved to New London, and worked at The Lighthouse Inn. He also worked at Ward Baking Company and Nissan Bread. He worked at The Williams School for 26 years, retiring at the ripe young age of 89. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, a lifetime member of the Groton Elks and was named Elk of the Year 1991-1992.

The most important job he held, was as a loving and dedicated husband to his cherished wife Beverly.

Jim was an avid sports fan-faithfully following the NY Giants, the Boston Red Sox, and the UCONN Women's Basketball team.

He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Robert; and his sister, Gladys.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly; his daughter, Debora (Joseph) Marcoux; his son, John J. Harris (and friend, Patti); his grandchildren, William (Veronica) Costello, Heather (Charles) Miller, and John J. Harris. The apples of his eye were his great-grandchildren, Malachi Emmanuel and Jahzara Irie Harris, and Thaddeus Locke Miller. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Jean Church; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He leaves behind many friends, especially Vance and Shirley Lamb.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, 2014, at the Groton Elks, Groton.

Donations in his memory may be made to UCONN Medical Center or a charity of your choice.