James Arthur Gaines

James Arthur Gaines, 73, of Hartford, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 31, 2025. James was born in Hartford, son of the late William and Christine (Singleton) Gaines, graduated from Weaver High School, and attended South Carolina State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and continued serving his fellow military brothers and sisters as a Veteran Service Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs, at both the Federal and State levels, retiring after over 25 years of service. His strong work ethic and drive inspired his family and friends to be the best they could be every day. James was a loving father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend. He will fondly be remembered as a kind and gentle man who loved his family more than anything. James could always be counted on to show up for his friends and family when needed and cherished Saturday morning breakfasts with his granddaughter and their trips to the mall. He was a high school athlete and lifetime lover of sports, especially his beloved "Lady Huskies." James maintained lifelong connections with his childhood best friends that spanned well over 60 years and was blessed to be surrounded by many of them during his final weeks, especially his brothers for life, Jimmy C. and Myron G. James was a lover of nature, history, Jazz music, and good food. He will forever be remembered by all that had the pleasure of experiencing his skills on the grill for his famous barbecue. James had a calm and comforting presence that made people feel at ease at first meet. He was a great father to his son and daughter and surrogate father and grandfather figure to the numerous children that entered his life over the years. James leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Ayesha Gaines-Roundtree and her husband Kendrick Roundtree of Bloomfield and Jabari A. Gaines and his partner Adriena Belton of Bloomfield; his granddaughter, Kenzi A. Lee; his uncle, David Sherman of Windsor; former spouse and best friend, Valeria Caldwell-Gaines; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Charles Frank Gaines. His service will be private, and he will be laid to rest in the Connecticut State Veteran's Cemetery in Middletown. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to The Connecticut American Legion Foundation to support Connecticut children and veterans. https://ctlegion.org/ct-legion-foundation/ or mai to The American Legion Department of Connecticut, 269 Main St., Cromwell, CT 06416.