James J Keavney

Jim Keavney of Norwalk, Conn., died peacefully at home Sunday surrounded by his loving family. Jim, an active member of St. Philip Roman Catholic Church, was born in Flushing, N.Y., to the late James Joseph and Mary (Miller) Keavney. Reared in Brooklyn, Jim graduated from Fordham University, where he earned a doctorate in chemistry. While at Fordham, Jim met the love of his life, Constance Costich, a fellow graduate student in chemistry

After graduation, Jim had a long and productive career working as a research chemist with American Cyanamid Co., where he worked on rocket fuels, paper chemicals and refinery catalysts.

Jim and Connie married Aug. 20, 1955, moving to Norwalk, where they raised six children. Jim was a loving and involved father. He served as scoutmaster for Troop 44, of which his four sons were members. He and Connie took their whole family — including infants, toddlers, and (eventually) surly teenagers — on camping trips every summer.

At their 60th wedding anniversary last summer, Jim and Connie celebrated with friends and family, both speaking of their long and loving marriage and their six children as the finest joys of their lives.

In retirement, Jim managed the St. Philip Church computer system. Jim and Connie also enjoyed traveling, with visits to Ireland, Russia, France, Switzerland, Peru, and many states including Alaska and Hawaii, and spending time with their children and grandchildren.

Jim began losing his vision to glaucoma in his 50s, but he faced this challenge with grace and fortitude. He was an eager early adopter of pioneering adaptive technology, which enabled him to maintain his active life. He especially enjoyed books on tape, which he loved to discuss with his children and friends.

Those who knew Jim noted his intellectual curiosity and love of science. Contrary to the stereotype of computer-illiterate seniors, Jim was active in the world of computers into his 80s, and despite becoming legally blind.

Throughout his life, Jim was a devout Catholic. His faith led to his decades-long involvement at St. Philip, both as a volunteer and paid staff.

Although Jim’s personality was quiet, calm and consummately logical, those who knew him well appreciated his (sometimes irreverent) sense of humor, his kindness and his depth of character. Jim's wit, integrity, curiosity and generosity will be sorely missed.

In addition to Connie, Jim is survived by children: Eileen (Stephen) Lonce, Chris (Janice Fuquay), Martha (Scott Harbison), Thomas (Elizabeth Taliaferro), David (Kristin Cotts) and Mark (Mia Ringbom); grandchildren Cindy, Rosa and Noah; brother George (Peggy) and a host of nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 28, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Philip (25 France St., Norwalk) with burial to follow in St. John Cemetery (225 Richards Ave., Norwalk). Calling hours are Friday, May 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. at St. Philip. For information or to sign an online guest book, visit www.magnerfuneralhome.com.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Philip Church, the National Federation of the Blind or the charity of your choice

 Service Information