James R. McMasters Sr.

1962 - 2025

James R. McMasters Sr.
Waterbury, CT
"Beloved husband, father, grandfather & brother"
James R. "Mac" McMasters Sr., 63, was born in Waterbury, CT, on May 2, 1962, son of James "JT" and Mary (Beamon) McMasters, died on May 17, 2025, in Vitas Hospice at St. Mary's Hospital.
He attended Wallace Middle School and Crosby High School, graduating in 1981. Following his time at Elizabeth State University, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Guam. He then became a Firefighter for the City of Waterbury on July 11, 1988, serving faithfully for 35 years before retiring in 2023.
James was an All-State football and basketball athlete in high school. He loved fishing, was an avid sports fan, and especially loved cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Alabama Crimson Tides football team and the UConn Huskies women's basketball team.
James leaves behind his loving wife, Gladys Harling-McMasters; his son, Eric (Krista) Kinsey Sr. of Altamonte Springs, FL; his daughter, Lakeisha Kinsey of Waterbury; his son, James (Alexia) McMasters Jr. of Waterbury; and his daughter ,Ashanti McMasters of Waterbury.
He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Nedrion Payne, Jakori Kinsey, Eric Kinsey Jr., Brianna Kinsey, Jayce McMasters, and Kennedy McMasters.
He is survived by his brother, Chauncey McMasters Sr., and his nephew, Chauncey McMasters Jr.
He was predeceased by his sister, Michelle McMasters and his parents, James "JT" and Mary McMasters.
Arrangements: A calling hour will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 10 am – 11am, followed by services from 11 am – 12 pm at Chase Parkway Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home, 430 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, CT.
For more info or to send e-condolences, visit: www.chaseparkwaymemorial.com