James Lawrence Hall

The world lost an amazing man on May 6, 2025. James Hall—known lovingly as Jimmy, Poppy, Mr. Poppadopolis, and Frankie Fluto—passed away peacefully at the age of 93, surrounded by his sons and the deep love of his family.

Born on August 22, 1931, in New London, Connecticut, Jim was one of eleven children of Robert Alfred and Elsie Hall. He grew up in New London and graduated from Chapman Technical High School before proudly serving four years in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. A gifted boxer during his time in the service, Jim was known for his toughness, grit, and quiet strength.

After returning home from military service, Jim married Joan Patton of New London. Together, they formed a strong and loving team, raising seven children and creating a warm, welcoming home. They were proud, devoted parents and doting grandparents who passed down their values and love through generations.

Jim dedicated 35 years of his professional life to General Dynamics – Electric Boat Shipyard in Groton, CT. Through hard work and discipline, he rose through the ranks to become a Transportation and Shipyard Materials Supervisor. He was driven, dependable, and had an incredible work ethic … qualities that defined his career and his life. He took pride in doing things the right way, often with his own two hands.

Jim was also a consummate do-it-yourselfer. One of his proudest accomplishments was general contracting the construction of the family’s home in Waterford, CT … personally managing the build and ensuring every detail met his standards. He had a passion for landscaping and could always be found outside maintaining beautifully manicured and decorated yards that reflected his care and creativity.

Following Joan’s passing in 1994, Jim later moved to Uncasville, CT, where he continued to live independently in his later years.

Jim was an avid fisherman and a loyal sports fan, cheering faithfully for the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, and Pittsburgh Steelers … and particularly for the UCONN Women’s Basketball Team. But above all, he was a man of heart. To know him was to love him.

He is survived by his sons: James Jr. of Groton, CT; Michael of Bornheim, Germany; Kevin of Pawcatuck, CT; and Lance of Wilmington, NC; as well as his sisters, Elsie Maultsby and Joann Tyree, both of Groton, CT. Jim was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren—Vincent Hall of Cheshire, CT; Zachary Hall of East Lyme, CT; Jonathon Hall of New Britain, CT; and Amaris Montoya of Meriden, CT; Brendon Hall of Houston, TX; Ryan Hall of Denver, CO; Erin Elizabeth of Taylorsville, UT; and twelve great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan Hall; his longtime companion, Joyce Marshall; his parents; his brothers, Alfred, Courtland, Donald, Willie, and Gerald Hall; and his sisters, Roberta Shields, Mildred Moore, and Norma Green; his children Pamella Hall, Wayne Hall, and Jay Hall.

Jim had an extraordinary life … 93 years of love, grace, hard work, and unwavering goodness. To the very end, he remained clear-minded, witty, humorous, grateful, and full of life. He was a role model, a source of strength, and a quiet hero to many. He showed us how to live with humility, integrity, kindness, and deep love.

His memory will live on in the stories, values, and laughter passed down for generations.

A celebration of Jim’s life is being planned for August 2025. Details will be shared with family and friends in the coming weeks.

Rest in peace, Poppy. You got it all done. You are so loved.