James A. Stratford

James Augustus Stratford, 85, of Bristol, RI husband of Kristen Newberg Stratford, passed away on Tuesday, September 6 at Newport Hospital. He was born August 6, 1932 to Augustus and Jeanette (Brightman) Stratford in Newport. James graduated from Rogers High School in 1951 and served in the US Army 1953-54 during the Korean War.Connecticut became his home in 1956, after marrying the late Beverly Hewitt. Jim and Bev raised their family in Vernon and were active members of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Manchester. Jim cherished many lifelong friendships and was embraced as an honorary Swede. He was a Boy Scout Leader and true outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He leaves us with happy memories of family camping.For most of his career Jim was involved in facilities management. Beginning at the First National Stores, he circulated among 100 stores in CT, Western MA, and NY. In 1968, he became supervisor of plant and maintenance for the UConn Health Center in Farmington. He worked there during its construction and for many years after. He retired as the building superintendent for Hartford Public Library System.Jim was a 55 year Mason and master of Manchester Lodge #73 in 1970, district deputy 1987-88, and member of the Scottish Rite and Sphinx Temple, and a member of St. John's Lodge in Middletown, RI.A true Newporter, James returned to the area after his retirement. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Newport. He enjoyed fishing, boating, and his morning exercise group with the guys. He was a member of the Tiverton Rod and Gun Club. Grampa Jim was so proud of his grandchildren and loved spending time with them at the shore and in CT.James began a new chapter when he fell in love and married Kristen Newberg Raposa in 2006 and settled in Bristol. They enjoyed each others company and traveled extensively.After his accident in 2014, James was unable to do many of the things he loved, but he maintained a quiet dignity, respect for others, and an ever-present sense of humor. He was blessed to have Kristen by his side. James resided at the RI Veterans Home and was grateful for his friends caregivers there.James also leaves his sister, Helen Wilkey (Duncan) of Portsmouth, RI, his daughter Donna Connolly of South Windsor, CT, and son William (Daryl) Stratford of Manchester, CT, grandchildren; Kristen (lsaac) Martinez, Sara, Garrett, and Evan Connolly and great granddaughters; London and Sienna Martinez, his dear friend and step son; Justin Raposa (Christine), Heather Raposa, David and Alyssa. He was predeceased by his brothers, John and twin William.Memorial donations in Jims name may be made to Camp Calumet, Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, PO Box 236, West Ossipee, NH 03890-0236.Interment will be at Island Cemetery, Newport, Saturday, September 23rd at 10:00am. A memorial service will follow at St. Peters Lutheran Church, Newport, September 23rd at 11:00am. Cemetery Details Island Cemetery 30 Warner Street Newport, RI, Service SEP 23. 11:00 AM St. Peter Lutheran Church 525 Broadway Newport, RI, US