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Longtime Essex resident James E. Leo died on Jan. 21, at age 85.

Jim, son of James Joseph Leo III and Lillian Burke Leo, was born on Feb. 20, 1936, into an Irish working-class family with deep roots in Jersey City, New Jersey. An avid basketball player, Jim graduated from St. Aloysius High School in Jersey City and went on to play for Seton Hall University while earning his degree. Jim lived in Monmouth County, New Jersey, until relocating to Essex in 1984.

Jim spent most of his career in sales at IBM and in real estate. A natural storyteller with quick wit and humor, Jim captivated every audience no matter the setting. He embraced new friendships at any age and once you crossed his path you were considered a friend. He cast a wide net on those he loved and would give you the shirt off his back. Jim manifested humility, empathy, and kindness. Jim Leo made people feel good.

Jim was a man of faith, a devoted Catholic, and family man. Every morning he watched 9 a.m. Mass and said the rosary. His faith was his foundation, as it gave him purpose, taught him gratitude, and brought him peace and fulfillment.

Jim’s greatest gifts were his grandchildren, Billy, Collin, Whitney, and Dustin. Known as “Grand Dad,” Jim proudly shared the accomplishments of his grandkids, never missing a basketball game or the opportunity to treat for ice cream. Jim was always there to share a story and a laugh. Jim was a man whose charm and humor set him apart; he was one of a kind.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Lucy M. Leo, mother to his daughters Christina Strain and Katherine (and Todd) Smith and sons James, John, Edward, and Jeffrey Leo.

As Jim would say, “It’s always a pleasure but it’s time to pull the pin”.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 31, at the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral home, 34 Main Street, Centerbrook. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 1, at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 14 Prospect Street in Essex. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the Essex Library Association, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT 06426. To share a memory of Jim or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com.