James Casanova

James Casanova of Branford passed away peacefully at home on May 18, 2026.

Jim was born in New Haven on March 12, 1927, the son of Gennaro and Josephine Casanova. Predeceased by Ann Olson Casanova, his beloved wife of 76 years, Jim was the devoted father of Gerald Casanova of Branford; James E. Casanova of Charlottesville, Virginia; David Casanova of East Hampton, Connecticut; and Lisa Morrison of Charlotte, North Carolina. He was the proud grandfather of Nicole Bristow of Charlotte, North Carolina; Samantha Crawford of Asheville, North Carolina; and Christian Casanova of New York City; and the cherished great-grandfather of Lucas, Amelia, and Isabella.

Predeceased by his sister, Eleanor Riccitelli of Madison, Connecticut, Jim is survived by his brother, Frank Casanova of Mesa, Arizona.

Jim was a passionate organic gardener, a voracious reader, and an avid sportsman. While serving in the U.S. Army he flourished playing shortstop on his camp's traveling baseball team, and years later coached Babe Ruth League baseball in Branford. Following his military discharge, Jim earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Quinnipiac University and an MBA in Finance from the University of Bridgeport. He spent 20 years as Dean of Administration at Tunxis Community College in Farmington.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 4, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Theresa Church of St. John Bosco Parish in Branford, followed at 11:00 am by a burial service at St. Agnes Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Branford Community Foundation.