James Christopher

Jim was a man of many talents, myriad interests, endless curiosity, and enviable energy.

He had love for all creatures great and small. Whether two-legged, four-legged, or feathered and winged, he would welcome you into his fold.

He found joy in the every day...a bear lumbering through the backyard, a banana split or scoop of his favorite cherry vanilla, organizing an elaborate easter egg hunt for the family, enjoying a culinary adventure with his dear friend, discovering a beautiful display of holiday lights, or spending time observing the antics of his chickens (AKA "the girls"), just to name a few.

He loved to garden and cook and to design and create beautiful spaces for himself and others. And he loved to work.

He was a man of deep faith and found great meaning in being of service to others. For 35 years Jim was involved with Chrysalis Center, Inc. on a volunteer basis. He believed strongly in their mission of providing supportive services to help individuals and families in need transform their lives, focusing on those experiencing poverty, homelessness, mental health issues, and re-entry from incarceration.

Jim was a caring husband, devoted son and brother, and a loyal friend. He was open-hearted, kind, and thoughtful, and impacted countless people who will remember him fondly. But mostly, he had a lot of love for his children and grandchildren. He was endlessly supportive, generous, and a wonderful role-model.

Jim was born and raised in Bristol, CT and lived most of his life in CT. He had degrees in Art Education and Interior Design from the Rhode Island School of Design.

He worked as an art educator when his eldest daughters were children. His next venture involved creating a business with his older brother, offering both contemporary furniture and interior design services. Jim realized a lifelong dream of being an innkeeper, and from 2012 to 2022, along with his wife Cathy, ran a bed and breakfast out of their beautifully restored and remodeled 18th century colonial home in Simsbury. He delighted in meeting guests from all over the world and hearing their stories (and prided himself on his hundreds of "five star reviews").

Jim's final job may have been his favorite. From August of 2024 until shortly before his death, he worked as a concierge at Stonebrook Village in Windsor Locks. While there he made many friends and cherished the time he was able to spend with them.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Helen (Lass) and Anthony Christopher, and his brothers Richard and Joseph (David Marbella).

Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 34 years, Cathy Carpino; his children Kimberly Christopher, Robin Christopher (Christopher Burke), Rachele Rouquie (Ricky Santiago), Francesca VanDerMaelen (Johnny VanDerMaelen), Dina Odell, and Jeffrey McIntosh; his grandchildren Emma Burke, Clare Burke (Marc Digesu), Luca VanDerMaelen, and Ramona VanDerMaelen. And his beloved dog Loretta.

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to:

Joel Silver, MD, Sam Lamanna, PA, and the dedicated and caring staff of Regional Cancer Care Associates, West Hartford.

The staff at Manchester Memorial Hospital Ambulatory Medical Unit (especially Christine, Kara, Rachel, Deanna, and Michael B).

UConn John Dempsey Hospital Emergency Department and Oncology Unit staff for providing excellent care with compassion.

The wonderful staff from McLean Hospice (including Cassandra, Lisa, Natalie, Trung, Sharonne, Ruth, Leah, and Hazel) for supporting all of us and making it possible for Jim to remain at home during his final days.

Father Michael Whyte from St. Catherine of Siena in West Simsbury, for being a steady and supportive presence in Jim's life for many years.

To the residents, family members, and staff of Stonebrook Village who brought such joy and purpose into Jim's life during the time that he worked there. His final wish was to be able to return to work before his death. And while he was unable to do so, the phone calls he received and the love and caring that was shown to him when he visited meant the world to him.

And to the friends who are too numerous to mention, but who have touched our lives over the years and provided support and comfort when we needed it most, we thank you.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 1st, 2026 beginning at 11am at St. Catherine of Siena, 267 Stratton Brook Road, West Simsbury, CT 06092 A celebration of Jim's life and repast will be held in the church hall immediately following the service.

A private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

Donations may be offered in his honor to Chrysalis Center. They can be made online at www.chrysaliscenterct.org/give or may be mailed to:
Chrysalis Center, Inc.
Attn: Lynda Waldron, Executive Assistant
255 Homestead Ave, Hartford, CT 06112
Please make checks payable to "Chrysalis Center" and include Jim's name in the memo line.