James Adelino Willard A.K.A “Crunch” and “Big Jim”, 32 years old, passed away tragically on Saturday, March 3, 2018. He was the beloved husband of five years to Michelle Coppola Willard. James was born in New Haven on December 14, 1985 and was the son of William “Chris” and Diane Gresto Willard. He was a 2004 North Branford High School graduate. A dedicated worker, James worked in security for many evening clubs in the New Haven area and for over 16 years he worked for Poolscape Pools as a Service Manager where he considered his co-workers his extended family. He was a member of the Branford Elks Lodge #1939 and member of the NASCAR SK Modified Series. James enjoyed camping and traveling, but most of all he enjoyed his family and friends whom he loved unconditionally especially his wife and daughter who were the center of his world. James was a “Jack of All Trades” and a “Gentle Giant with a Big Heart”; he will truly be missed. Loving and devoted father to his little angel Ava Marie and was looking forward for his son to be born in May. Brother of Matthew S. Willard (Courtney) and Elizabeth Willard (fiancé Michael Mauro). Grandson of Wesley and Judith Willard, Dorothy Gresto and the late Adelino “Joe” Gresto. Son-in-law of William (Billy) and Louise Coppola. Brother-in-law of Andrew Schmata. Uncle of Ella and Owen. Also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and his family dog Buddy.
Family and friends are invited to go directly to St. Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven on Friday morning at 10:00 to attend a Mass of Christian burial and are also invited to attend the committal service immediately following in All Saints Cemetery. The visiting hours will be Thursday from 3 to 7 pm at the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the James A. Willard Children’s Education Fund or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929
Michelle, you and your family are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss, Jim was such a great man, husband and father. I know words cannot possibly lessen your grief, but please know that your family and friends are always here for you, thinking about you, and loving you. My hope is that you will find comfort in the many memories you have of your life with your beloved Jim. I love you.
Our deepest condolences to Michelle, Ava and the entire family. No words will make this nightmare any better, we will always remember Jim as a kind, gentle, respectful young man. With all our love, Ron and Joanne
Chris, Diane, siblings, Michelle, and extended family; Jimmy’s character never waivered from even the young years when I knew him growing up with my three sons in the Northford neighborhood. He had my respect then and retained the admiration and friendship from my sons to the present. I’m heartbroken for all. My condolences. RJA
Michelle, I am so very sorry and heartbroken over your devastating loss and can only imagine the grief you are feeling. I have known you and your mom for a long time, and I fondly recall all your stories of Jim from dating, getting engaged, married, and even more recent events. You and your family have constantly been on my mind and in my prayers. I am here for you for anything you need, now and in the future so please don’t hesitate to reach out. Love and prayers to you and Ava!!
Michelle and Family, Words cant express how sorry I am for your devastating and tragic loss. I pray that you are all able to find some sort of peace in all the beautiful memories of the time that you had with Jim. Taken from this earth way too soon. We can never understand why horrible things like this happens, but may God be with you all during this difficult time. You know your work family is here for you, whatever you need. My deepest, heartfelt condolences. Thoughts and Prayers. XOXOXOX
To Michelle and the entire Willard and Coppola family we are praying for healing strength and the love of god to guide you not only through this week but everyday as you honor and cherish the memory of Jim. Keep the Lord close every minute of everyday and stay focused on his everlasting promise that we will be together one day soon Love to you all ❤️
Michelle and family, There aren’t any words to describe how sorry I am for your loss. I hope you find peace and comfort to help during this tragic time. Please know that your work family is thinking and praying for you. <3
Michelle and family, your loss has left all us deeply saddened. May peace and comfort find you during this difficult time.
To the entire Willard family, I’m so deeply sorry for the loss of Jim. Please know that you’re all in my thoughts and prayers during this extremely difficult time. May he Rest In Peace 🙏🏼
There are no words for this tragic loss. May he Rest In Peace
He was a good man always
We are truly heartbroken for you and your family, please know we are here for you all if you need anything. Prayers to all of you. May he rest in peace
Diane and Chris, we are heartbroken and extremely saddened by this tragic news. No words can express our deepest sympathy nor ease your overwhelming grief and sadness. With the strength of your wonderful family you will endure. We are keeping you all in our prayers. Hugs to all. xxoo
Michelle, I am extremely sorry for your loss and saddened by your pain. May you find strength and comfort during this tragic time. My thoughts and prayers are with Ava and you . Please let me know if you need anything.
I am incredibly sorry to hear the passing of my friend Jim. We’ve shared many laughs together. Jim was an incredible soul who was always encouraged me to achieve my dreams and goals. My heart truly hurts for your family, and I would like to send my deepest sympathy and condolences to you all. I wish you all love, healing, and peace during this extremely difficult time.
My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you the comfort and peace.
Michelle my condolences to you are your family words cannot take your pain away but know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. May “Big Jim” rest in peace.
Willard Family I am so sorry to hear of the loss of James, he was like part of our family as my 3 sons were growing up. I always knew if they were with James they were having fun and not getting into mischief.
I will keep thoughts and prayers as you go through this so sad loss of James.
God Bless,
My Deepest Sympathy and Condolences
Jody
There is no rhyme or reason for this tragic loss. My deepest & sincere sympathy to you Michelle & little Ava & your families. Rest in Peace Jim.
Love, Sue
This is such tragic news and breaks my heart. I feel so sorry for Diane, Chris, Matt, and Liz, as I can’t imagine how you’re feeling. I’m also sad for aunt Dot and Jimmy’s wife, Ava, and the baby on the way. You are all going through something unfair and awful. There isn’t anything that anyone can say to ease your pain. All I can do is offer my sympathy and let you know you’re all in my thoughts.
Michelle, Louise, Billy, Andy, and the Willard family – We are truly devastated by this loss and have many memories that we will hold deep in our hearts. Our love and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Michelle…
My heart hurts for you .
I pray you are able to find comfort from all those around you that love you .
May God bless you and your family .
May he Rest In Peace . 🙏🏻
michelle. I can’t imagine your pain . I pray God gives you the strength and comfort through this difficult time. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family.
Michelle & Willard Family,
I had the pleasure of working with Jim back in my early bartending days at Rbar. He was always such a kind person and his positive energy could be felt by anyone who was in his presence. This says a lot to anyone who has worked in such a chaotic atmosphere.
My heart breaks for you all. My deepest sympathy and condolences.
Michelle, I’m praying for you and your family at this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so very sorry for your loss. May he Rest In Peace. ❤️
Thoughts and prayers to this entire family. May the warmth of friends hold you up during this difficult time. ❤️🙏🏻
Dear Michelle, my heart breaks for you. May the almighty give you and family strength to overcome this difficult time. Deepest Condolence.
To Chris and Jim’s whole family, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Sitting beside Chris in the stands, watching our boys play football and basketball is a wistful fond memory. Now they both watch us from above. My saddest condolences. 💔
Michelle no words can express how sorry I am for your loss. May God bring to your heart the strength and peace you need to go through this difficult time. Remember, you are surrounded by many people who love you and will be there for you and your family. My prayers are for you and your family.
I’m at a loss for words. This is so, so sad. My Deepest Sympathy to ALL of you. Your all in my thoughts and prayers. Keep your memories dear to your heart. Praying!!! XOXO
Family and friends, we are very sorry for your loss. Keeping you in our prayers,
To all of Michelle’s family and friends my thoughts and prayers to all at this time of incredible loss . May our lord provide you strength at this time of sorrow 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Michele. So sad to hear about the tragic loss of your son in law.
My deepest sympathies to all of you. Heartbreaking. Terese
Dear Michelle, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Jim. My heart goes out to you, your Mom, and little Ava during this sad time. Please know that your work family on 5-5 loves you and will always be here for you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
I am so sorry for your loss.
No words can make this any better. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Willard family and extended family. May Jim Rest in Peace.
Michelle, Ava, and the entire extended family my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this trying time. May you all find comfort in memories you’ve shared. My deepest condolences!
May the God of comfort give you Michelle, Ava, and your entire family the comfort you need at this time. Your are in our thoughts and prayers.
Michele, I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s tragic accident. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead and may Jim RIP.
Love,
Patty
To the Willard family , extended family , Michele & Ava, from being family friends for nearly 25 + years we are deeply saddened by your Loss, we will hold many fond memories of camping and game dinners with Jimmy being one of nicest people we have ever known . With his Kind spirit and him being such a good person always ! We are deeply saddened for your entire families loss .
With Sympathy, The Kazimer Family.
Chris, there is nothing I can say to make this any easier for you, but please know I’m praying for you and all your entire family. My deepest condolences to you all.
We love you all very much and will continue to pray for your strength and comfort. The times we have spent with you over many years has become more and more precious. Always close in thought and heart – a loving embrace to you Michelle, sweet Ava, Diane, Chris, Liz, Matt, Aunt Dot – and all the relatives. We are so saddened by Jim’s passing. We will pray for you without ceasing. Love from Al, Susy, Albert & Holly
Chris so sorry for your loss! I couldn’t imagine how your feeling. My prayers are with you and your family. May the Lord give you strength to persevere. Your high school friend Richard.
Michelle and Family,
For Your Solace
I give you this one thought to keep –
I am with you still – I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone –
I am with you still – in each new dawn.
May your Heart always carry a joyful song.
Remember that you are Blessed –
each day by the Love that lives all around you.