James John Bigham

James John Bigham, of Naples, FL and Loveladies, NJ passed away at the age of 85 on March 8th. He was born in Waterbury, CT to Kathryn (Meagher) and Thomas Bigham. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, MaryEllen; and his children Stephen (Karen), Anne, Jonathan (Jill), Jennifer (Dee), and his five grandchildren; William, Olivia, Elizabeth, Sophia, and Matthew, many nieces and nephews, and TeddyBear his faithful dog.

Jim graduated from Thomaston High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Fairfield University, a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University, and attended Harvard University Business School’s leadership program. He went on to lead a distinguished career in corporate finance, first at Celanese Corporation and then at the Continental Grain Company.

He was admired for his warmth, kindness, understanding, his commitment to those who worked for and with him, and the manner in which he provided guidance and appreciation for their work. He was always willing to lend a hand at work, with family and friends, and at his volunteer positions, serving on the Board of Trustees at Fairfield University and the Barnegat Light Yacht Club.

Jim was an avid tennis player, golfer, and sailor. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

The wake will be held at Fuller Funeral Home East Naples on March 21 from 2-4pm and funeral Mass will be held at St Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Naples on Wednesday March 22 at 10:00 AM. There will be a celebration of life in New Jersey sometime in May.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers friends may consider offering a donation to:

·The St. Francis Center /LBICC human concerns food pantry. 4700 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach township NJ 08008 (stfranciscenterlbi.org)
·The St Francis parish music ministry, or
·The Avow Frances Georgeson Hospice House (avowcares.org) 1095 whippoorwill LN Naples FL 34105