John Joseph Denley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Joseph Denley, of Brookfield, CT, who passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 79, following a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. John was born in Mount Kisco, NY on December 14, 1945, to Anna Silkman Denley and Robert Denley.
John is survived by his loving wife Patricia (née Sparkes) of 58 years, and his two daughters Kimberley Burns (Ken) and Karen Bender (Tom) of Newtown, CT; four cherished grandchildren, Lyndsey Allen (Michael), Sarah Bender (Cameron Priola), Riley James Burns, and Natalie Grace Bender; two great grandchildren, Michael Rivers Allen and Iris June Allen; his loving brother and sister Robert Denley and Judith Panissidi (Kenneth); and many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who were so important to him.
John grew up in Katonah, NY, and attended John Jay High School. John started his career as a plumber with New York Local Union 21 | Plumbers, Steamfitters & HVAC-R Service. On September 17, 1966, John married the love of his life, Patricia Sparkes and moved to Danbury, CT shortly thereafter. While living in Danbury, John served as a Boy Scout Leader for Troop #22 making positive impacts on the lives of many. The couple moved to Brookfield, CT in 1972 where they established their family business, John J. Denley Plumbing and Heating, Inc.. John continued to work as a self-employed plumbing and heating contractor until his cancer diagnosis in 2022.
John found great enjoyment assisting and coaching his girls' softball teams, watching them ride horses, camping with his extended family, and a greater love for traveling to Sint Maarten, DWI with his family where he and Pat established many great friendships over the years following their first trip together in 1974. John also enjoyed vegetable gardening and a good afternoon nap on his back porch. For those that knew John, it was through his joke and storytelling that many of his closest relationships were formed and fostered. We find peace in knowing that John has been reunited with his family and friends and his beloved dogs Lassie, Brandy and Whiskey who all passed before him.
John's family extends heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the nursing staff of Danbury Hospital and the Praxair Cancer Center who provided care to John during his illness and to the Regional Hospice of Danbury who provided comfort and support to both John and his family during his final days. The family also wishes to thank the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company and Emergency Services who responded and provided services whenever needed.
The family will receive guests from 10:00 to 11:00 am on Monday, May 12, at the Brookfield Congregational Church located at 160 Whisconier Road, Brookfield, CT. A church service will follow at 11:30 am with inurnment into the church's memorial wall following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, 92 Pocono Road, Brookfield, CT 06804.
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