James was an active member of the New York theater community as a hair stylist for Broadway, film and television productions. Most recently he was the head of the hair department for the NBC television drama Third Watch. In a career spanning 20 years, his credits included 16 Broadway shows, 16 TV shows, and 28 movies, among them Phantom of the Opera; Les Misérables; Gypsy; Saturday Night Live; The Today Show; The CBS Evening News; Stuart Little; In and Out; and Me, Myself & Irene.
Born in New London, James grew up in Groton and graduated from Fitch Senior High School in 1966. He attended Lancaster Bible College in Pennsylvania and the Robert Fiance School of Cosmetology in New York City.
An Army veteran, he served in Korea as a chaplain's assistant in 1970.
In addition to his mother, Lucille Post, of Groton, he is survived by five brothers, Wally, Gary, Albert and Johnny, all of Groton, and Franklin, of Westerly, R.I.; a niece, Bonnie Stanford, of Groton, and her husband and sons, Danny, Ryan, and Deion; and his companion and partner of 21 years, Wesley Triplett, of New York City.
Memorial services are being planned for New York City and Stockbridge, Mass.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to charity. In New York City James was an active and longtime fundraiser for Broadway Cares (212-840-0770) and their efforts on behalf of AIDS patients in the theater community. He was also an avid supporter of the Berkshire Humane Society (413-447-7878) in Massachusetts.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Diane (Robarge) Pezzolesi
April 13, 2005
It seems we just said, "hello old friend." In a blink of an eye, how fast the time goes by.
Our lives lead each of us in many different directions as we grow.
I'm so thankful our paths were destined to cross again.
One last time to catch up, to renew our friendship, to see your smile, to get to know your kind, considerate, gentle soul.
Your gift to me.
I'm thankful I was able to offer you prayers, spiritual and emotional support during your difficult time.
My gift to you.
With faith in God, you resolved to remain positive and wear a smile. You fought with all your might, hoping a cure would be in sight - at the same time, remaining concerned for so many others going through similar struggles.
You said you wanted us all to celebrate one day, and we will, when we meet again on the other side of the garden wall. Please wait for us there.
I admire all you achieved in your work. You lived a good life. You loved your partner, Wes, your family and friends. You loved God.
You were amazing! An example for us all.
I salute you my dear friend!
Thank you for caring about all of us - you never forgot us...and we will never forget you.
Love, Diane
Donna and Bob
April 12, 2005
John, Al, Gary, and Wally,
We are very sorry to hear of your brother's passing. Although we never met him, he seems to have been loved and well thought of, by all who knew him. Our condolences go out to you and your entire family.
Bob and Donna
Jaime Berger
April 8, 2005
Dave and I were so sad to hear about Jimmy's passing. You, his family are all in our thoughts and prayers. I just keep thinking that Coleen was there to greet him and hug him. Please know we all are here and thinking of you at this time. Special hugs to Wally and Bonnie.
Terry Gouette
April 7, 2005
Friends since kindergarten. What paths we have travelled. The laughter and the tears. How we used to talk of our dreasm as we lay upon the gound and watch the stars in the autumn sky. Now I will look skyward for that extra sparkle which will be my great friend Jim.
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Dana Gouette
April 6, 2005
During our lives..if fortune shines upon us..we meet special people at a very young age..become friends..and remain friends all our lives.My family grew up with Jim and his 6 brothers..we all met about 1957 and have remained friends all these years...Jim even lived with my family for a bit many years ago...we were family that way..and I know his family felt the same way about me, or any of my brothers or sisters. It is with great sadness that I hear of Jims' very untimely passing.His brother's and I literally grew up together..and to this day we still on occasion share good times.Tho Jim's work took him to the Big Apple..he always stayed in touch with my sister Judy..and she would in turn let me know how his work was proceeding...and then later in life thru the magic of e-mail..he and I would as time allowed correspond with one another. I like to think that God needed a great hairstylist and called Jim home...to be met by his Dad..his younger brother Donny..and others that have gone before. I will carry his memory with me thruout the remainder of my life..and I will look back and remember Jim..and smile! Rest in Peace my beloved friend...and my deepest sympathies to his remaining family and his partner in life, Wesley...we love you Jim !
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