James A. Thibodeau

Naugatuck - James Amede Thibodeau, beloved husband of Lorraine (Canaperi) Thibodeau, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 14, 2026 surrounded by his family.  He was 79 years old and a member of St. Vincent Ferrer Church.

Born in Waterbury, CT on October 21, 1946, he was the son of the late Amede and Calista (Blanchette) Thibodeau.  He was a longtime Naugatuck resident and had worked at McGuire Manufacturing as a shipping manager for more than 30 years until his retirement.  Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and served in Vietnam.  On May 11, 1969, as a Flight Engineer on the Jolly Green 15, he bravely rescued his friend and brother Capt. Gary L. Bain in the face of enemy fire and prevented further injury and the chopper from being shot down.  Jim was recognized and awarded for this heroic effort.  

He was a proud veteran whose life was marked by generosity, patience, and quiet dedication to those around him. He found great joy in the simple pleasures of life—decorating enthusiastically for Halloween and Christmas, listening to music, and reminiscing with classic shows like Leave It to Beaver and old game shows. He loved spending time duckpin bowling, playing setback and cribbage, trips to the casino, lotto scratchers, and sharing laughter during visits to the Prospect Senior Center.  Known for his warm heart and steady presence, he always made time for others and gave freely of himself. 

His greatest joy was spending time with his beloved wife, family, friends, and especially his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Poppy.” He fiercely loved his wife—so much so that he even agreed to try square dancing just to share in something she enjoyed. He could often be found proudly attending dance recitals and sporting events, cheering on his grandchildren with enthusiasm. Family gatherings were made even more lively with the occasional “competitive” game of Rummikub or Skip-Bo. The moments he shared with those he loved most were the ones he treasured above all else.

In addition to his wife Lorraine of 53 years, he leaves his family to honor his memory, daughters Laura Ward (Michael), Lisa Lamson (Robert), and Lianna Urso (Sean); his seven grandchildren Patrick and Stella Lamson, Michael and Jack Ward, Layla Urso, and Cole and Chase Roberts; his brothers and sisters-in-law Virginia Paolino, Harvey Piazza, Sally Canaperi, Linda Favale (Michael), and John Canaperi (Cheryl); many nieces and nephews, and his longtime best friend Don DiDonato (Joyce) who he enjoyed comparing scratch-off results.  He was predeceased by his brother Edward Thibodeau, his brothers and sisters-in-law Elizabeth and Angelo Tremaglio, Robert Paolino, Donald Canaperi, Harold Canaperi Jr, Carol Piazza, and Doris and Joseph DiStefano. 

The family would like to thank the VA Healthcare System, Bright On Hospice, Always Best Care Senior Services, Elara Caring Home Care, and Dr. Ralph Tremaglio for the care and compassion shown to James over the last 3 years.  

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 8:30 - 10 a.m at Naugatuck Valley Memorial on North Main St Naugatuck, followed by a 10:30 a.m Mass of Christian Burial at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, 1006 New Haven Road, Naugatuck.  Burial with military honors will be in St. James Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Boxes to Boots (https://boxestoboots.org/), the VA Healthcare system, or simply thank a veteran.  To send an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.naugatuckvalleymemorial.com         

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