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James S. “Jimmy” Pelletier, 59 of New Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 24, 2025. A fun-loving husband, brother, and uncle, talented carpenter, and beloved friend, Jimmy was a shining light in the lives of those who knew him. Born on February 15, 1966, a son of the late Roland and Arline (Ouellette) Pelletier, Jimmy was raised in Plainville alongside his brother and twin sisters, fostering a strong family bond that would remain with him throughout his life.
As a master carpenter, Jimmy possessed a remarkable ability to build and fix anything, demonstrating an extraordinary gift with his hands. His selflessness knew no bounds, as he readily offered his skills to anyone in need.
Jimmy found his peace on the sprawling acres he called home with his beloved wife, Deborah (Miller) Foster, and their three treasured fur babies, Allie, Boomer, and Ooly. Jimmy adored driving his John Deere tractor and cherished scenic rides in his beloved red Dodge Ram.
His favorite moments were spent surrounded by family, especially during the holidays when the warmth of togetherness could be felt most profoundly. To many, he was affectionately known as "Uncle Jimmy," a title he wore with pride and joy.
A member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 18 years, Jimmy inspired countless individuals on their journeys toward recovery, forging deep friendships along the way. A self-described “foodie” his love for people was matched only by his sweet tooth, passion for food and iced coffee. Jimmy had an infectious sense of humor, often playfully razzing those around him, and he embraced the nickname "Tin Man," which he earned after receiving a mechanical heart valve replacement. His body was adorned with tattoos reflecting this moniker, each a testament to his ride through life. He is already missed beyond measure, and he will forever be remembered for his vibrant spirit and the love he shared with everyone he encountered.
In addition to his wife Debbie, he leaves his sister, Liette Pelletier; his brother, Michael Pelletier; his niece and goddaughter, Sierra Brantley; his nephews Cameron Agbaso and Tim Little; his nieces Faith Pelletier, Victoria Gagnon, Kaylee Gridley and Brianna Gridley; his sisters-in-law, Susan Miller and brother-in-law Caleb Irizarry, Jennifer Miller, Karen Miller and brother-in-law Bruce Gridley and Tracy Miller; and countless friends that he considered family, especially his dear AA friends, his sponsor Phil Brown, Jerry Crawford, Mike Fitzgerald, Roland Orth, Sr. and Jimmy Dunn. He was heartbroken at the unexpected loss of his sister last month, Liann Theresa Pelletier, with whom he is now rocking the heavens and sharing in their mutual love for music.
In lieu of flowers, Jimmy’s love for animals may be remembered with contributions to Companion Pet Rescue at www.cprdogs.com, where two of his dogs were adopted from.
A special thank you to the staff at Hartford Hospital Bliss 2 who became his second family, and to the staff at Hospital for Special Care for their compassionate care in nursing Jimmy back to his best health.
Family and friends may gather on Saturday May 3, 2025 from 9-11 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville. Words of remembrance led by Life Celebrant Jesse Gnazzo will be shared at 11:00 a.m. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James S. Pelletier, please visit our floral store.