James Patrick Kearns, Jr, 87, of Newtown died June 21, in Danbury Hospital surrounded by his family. Born in Stamford, he was a son of Mary and James Kearns of Stamford.

His wife of 58 years, Alma; his son, James Patrick Kearns III and wife Tami of Stockton, Calif.; his daughter, Megan and husband Joseph LaCava of Southbury; and five grandchildren, Kelsey, Jonathan, and Ryan Kearns and Lauren and Joseph LaCava, survive him.

His sisters, Rosemary Murphy and Anne Parkhurst; and brother, William Kearns, predeceased him.

Mr Kearns graduated from Stamford High School in 1948 and, after a short time in the Reserve during the Korean War, worked for Pitney Bowes in Stamford and later in Newtown until he took early retirement.

He was then kept busy attending most of his daughter's, and years later his grandchildren's, athletic games at Newtown and Pomperaug High School. He was very active in the Newtown Democratic Party and served on the Legislative Council. He volunteered for Fish and Meals On Wheels. Mr Kearns was also active in the Easton Covenant Church and served as treasurer and a member of the Church Council. His steadfast devotion to his faith provided him strength and serenity throughout his life.

Early in his marriage, he enjoyed time with his family each summer in a ocean beach house in Brant Rock, Mass., then later taking trips to various places throughout the United States. He remembered, with fondness, a trip to Italy he took with his wife and friends. He enjoyed spending several weeks at his denomination's camp in New Hampshire, Pilgrim Pines Camp and Conference Center.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, July 6, from 4 to 7 pm, at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown.

A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Friday, July 7, at 11 am, at the Easton Covenant Church, 1 Sport Hill Road, Easton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Pilgrim Pines Camp and Conference Center, 220 West Shore Road, Swanzey NH 03446.