James Edward Gearhart, Jr., 64, of Naugatuck, Connecticut, died unexpectedly on July 20, 2025. A beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend, Jimmy will be remembered for his sharp wit, mischievous spirit, gentle nature, and love for his family.

Jimmy was a keen observer of the world—thoughtful, insightful, and very, very funny. He had a gift for seeing what others missed and delivering the perfect deadpan comment at exactly the right moment. He didn’t need to be the center of attention—in fact, he preferred the edge of the room, where he could quietly take everything in and drop a one-liner that left everyone laughing. He was never one for big crowds or small talk, but he had a big heart and a soft spot for the people he loved.

His work life included time at Philpenn Imported Car Companyin Pennsylvania, and later at Helicopter Support, Inc, a division of Sikorsky Aerospace in Connecticut. After retiring, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—reading, solving crossword puzzles, enjoying a good cup of coffee, getting a bargain, taking long walks in nature, and spending time at the family cabin in the Catskills, where he would debate politics with whomever would take him on. He became an excellent cook and loved experimenting in the kitchen. New kitchen gadgets excited him and he even traveled with his cast iron skillet. 

Jimmy was a confirmed bachelor but took great pride in his role as an uncle and family member. He enjoyed his reputation as the best gift-giver in the family and if anyone needed help, he was there to offer it.

He is pre-deceased by his mother, Suzanne Hinkley Gearhart, his uncles Joseph Denny Sargent Hinkley and James William Hinkley, III, and is survived by his siblings: Jennifer Luethy, Eric Gearhart (Shawn), and Susannah Thomas (Daniel Scully)and his father, James Edward Gearhart, Sr. (Nancy). He also leaves behind his much-loved nieces and nephews—Joshua (Kate), Olivia, Will, Elizabeth, and Harry—along with aunts and uncles Mark Hinkley (Virginia Lee), Patricia Hinkley, Deborah Hinkley, and David & Sue Gearhart, as well as a circle of cousins, extended family and friends. He was also a favorite of the family dogs and could frequently be found curled up on the sofa with one at the cabin.

Jimmy lived his life on his own terms. He was generous, caring, smart, a little mysterious, and absolutely one of a kind. His family loved him unconditionally and he will be greatly missed.

Services will be private. If you’d like to honor him, do something he’d enjoy: cook a great meal, take a walk in the woods, make someone laugh, watch old Monty Python episodes, or pause to notice the simple beauty in an ordinary day.