G. Jeffrey Wilcox

1949 - 2017

Stonington - G. Jeffrey Wilcox, 68, of Latimer Point, Stonington, died too young on Thursday, May 25, 2017, surrounded by his family, at his home.

Born Jan. 7, 1949, in New London, to Alfred R. Sr and Priscilla (Saunders) Wilcox, he grew up on the waters of Fisher's Island Sound and in Stonington. Jeff graduated from Stonington High School in 1967. Jeff then enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1968 and married Nancy Hoffman in Norwich on Oct. 3, 1970.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Melissa Watson and her husband, Joel, of Mystic; son, Brian of Stonington; the lights of his life, his grandchildren, Alexandria, Hunter, Ainsley (his angel), Bryce, Emma, Cole and Archer; his dog, Athena; and his brothers, A. Rogers Wilcox of Gales Ferry, Richard Wilcox of Niantic and Peter Wilcox of Florida and Canada.

While in the Navy, Jeff spent time in Tennessee at aviation basics and electrical schools. From there he was stationed at China Lake Naval Air Station, Anti-Submarine Patrol Squadron 30, then finally Anti-Submarine Patrol Squadron 8 (VP-8). He was honorably discharged from the Navy in July of 1972. He then went to work at Wilcox Marine Supply until his retirement in 2013.

Jeff gave over 30 years of his time to Quiambaug Fire Company starting as "just a driver" and rising through the ranks to deputy chief. He earned his firefighter II and was also certified as a medical response technician. In 2012 Quiambaug named an award after him.

He was a member of the Groton Sportsmen's Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and shooting skeet with the HAGS. Clamming was a favorite summer pastime, and he enjoyed being on the water with family and friends. Jeff was also a member of the First United Methodist Church in Mystic.

Those who truly knew Jeff, know that he had a heart that was at least just as big as he was. He freely gave of his time to help friends, family and strangers. You would also know of his endless knowledge of local history, and the waters of Fisher's Island Sound. His greatest joys, other than telling stories of his Navy days and deployments to Bermuda, were his grandchildren. I think his youngest grandchild said it best when he said, "He will always be in my heart." The world has lost a truly amazing man and could use more people who give of themselves for their communities like Jeff. Rest easy sailor, we have the watch.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, at the Mystic Funeral Home on Route 1, Mystic. A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, at the First United Methodist Church on the Corner of Church and Willow in Mystic. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank Masonicare Hospice for all their assistance during Jeff's final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to JDRF, 26 Broadway 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.