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James M. Connors, 87, of Wyomissing, formerly of Greenfields, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, surrounded by his loving family at the Highlands of Wyomissing. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Anna M. (Albrecht) Connors, along with four children, 12 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. “Jim” as he was known to family and friends, was born to Myles F. and Elizabeth (Milyard) Connors, and grew up in Garden City, Long Island. He graduated from Garden City High School, where he was editor of the literary magazine. Jim was a devoted pianist who loved jazz and could play by ear. He continued his education at Princeton University, earning a bachelor’s degree in economics. It was during a summer job that a synchronized swimmer and Hunter College student, Anna Marie Albrecht of Queens, NY, captured his attention; a lifelong love affair and partnership blossomed. Jim earned his MBA at Harvard Business School and began his career at Scudder Stevens & Clark, a New York City investment firm. Two years later, he accepted a position at the Carpenter Steel Corporation (now Carpenter Technology), and he and Anna relocated to Berks County--a community they embraced, and where they made lifelong friends. Jim’s early duties at Carpenter included programming the first IBM commercial computer (now housed in the Smithsonian Institution), and he also taught business courses as an adjunct professor at Albright College. In 1969, he left Carpenter to realize an entrepreneurial dream: founding his own investment advisory firm. Connors Investor Services initially published research reports on small company stocks and sold the expertise to individuals and brokerage firms. Through the years, the business evolved and grew, focusing its efforts on investment management. Jim’s son, Peter, now serves as its president, and the firm--which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary-- has nearly $1 billion under management. In all of his interactions, Jim was known for his warmth and quick wit. He found humor in everyday situations and in the absurdities of life. Even recently, as he struggled with congestive heart failure, he made those around him laugh with his well-timed quips and comic observations. Jim pursued many interests with energy and passion-- tennis, listening to music, reading, playing marathon Scrabble games with Anna, and tending his beloved vegetable garden. He especially enjoyed the family’s annual vacation to the Jersey shore, and later, after the children had grown, many international trips with Anna. Jim’s generosity of spirit shone brightly in his community involvement. He lent his time and expertise freely, serving on the boards and committees of local nonprofits, including Reading Area Community College, the Children’s Home of Reading, Greater Berks Food Bank (now Helping Harvest), and many others. He co-chaired (with Anna) the United Way of Berks County Annual Campaign, and also served on the Board of Governors of United Way of America. Jim took great pride and pleasure in helping to launch the Berks Jazz Fest 30 years ago. As an early proponent, he rallied community sponsors, and continued to enthusiastically support the event each year. Jim is survived by his wife, Anna; daughter, Jan Dagenhart (Thomas); daughter, Lisa Crawford (Kevin); son, Michael Connors (Theresa); son, Peter Connors (Santina); ten grandchildren: Jeffrey, James, Jenna, Conor, Annie, Kevin, Meghan, Alexandria, Jacob and Benjamin; four step-grandchildren: Jonathan, Julia, TJ and Sean; one great-grandchild, and several step-great-grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his brother, Myles F. Connors Jr., and his sister, Helen Marie Schell. Jim will be remembered for his untiring energy and upbeat demeanor. He was gracious and kind, and deeply interested in the lives of others--whether his children and grandchildren, colleagues and friends, or an occasional acquaintance. We will miss his unique ability to make connections with people, to nurture and love them, and to make us laugh every single day. A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held Saturday, February 8, 2020, at 10:30 am at Atonement Lutheran Church, 5 Wyomissing Blvd, Wyomissing, PA, followed by entombment at Gethsemane Cemetery, Hyde Park. Friends may call Friday, February 7, from 5:00-8:00 pm at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA, and Saturday, from 9:30-10:30 am at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s honor may be made to the United Way of Berks County, P.O. Box 702, Reading, PA 19603 or at www.uwberks.org. Condolences may be expressed at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.
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Anna,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for you and your entire family. Jim was a very special man and will be missed by many.
Jim Kintzer
February 10, 2020
My deepest sympathy to all the Conners family.
Mary Black
Acquaintance
February 8, 2020
Dear Anna and family, I was so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. He was such a wonderful, warm, respected man, I know he will be truly missed. Hoping that your memories of him will give you comfort at this difficult time.
With my deepest sympathy for you loss,
Carolyn Gouger
Carolyn Gouger
February 8, 2020
Mrs. Connors, Lisa and entire family, my deepest sympathies. Jim Connors was simply a great man. My Mother thought the world of and spoke often of "Anna and Jim". I know she would want me to extend her condolences for your loss, too. Heartfelt wishes for peace and the comfort of wonderful memories to you.
Beth Klawitter
January 31, 2020
Dear Anna....
You and your family are in my thoughts and you have my warmest and sincere sympathy. Jim was a all around great guy.....part of that his fun personality! I always admired your marriage and how you complimented each other! His life was well lived and successful many times over. He will surely be missed by so many..........
LYNN L. Brumbach
January 31, 2020
Our deepest sympathy to Anna and the family. I have very fond memories of Jim & Anna and their passion for United Way. They approached us with a new concept to grow Tocqueville Society and just see today the results of those efforts.
I cherish the memories of working with him for charitable causes .
May he rest in peace.
Brad & Carroll Scribner
Brad & Carroll Scribner
January 31, 2020
Connors Family,
Please accept my sympathy in the loss of your father, and know that thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Brian Huber
January 31, 2020
Deepest condolences to the entire Connors family. Jim was a highly respected and great man who will be sorely missed.
Frank DiMaria
January 31, 2020
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Kuhn Funeral Home - West Reading739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611
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