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James Francese Jr.

James Francese Jr. of Madison passed away on Sept. 14, 2024, at the age of 94. He was born on May 16, 1930, son of Ida Atkins and Vincenzo (James Sr.) Francese.

He graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1948 and the Albany College of Pharmacy in 1952

He was in the Army for two years during the early 1950s, serving in a medical corps in Germany, after which he worked in retail pharmacy in Wappingers Falls, New York. He moved to Highland, New York, in 1959, and worked at Fogle’s Pharmacy where he met his wife Barbara. He went on to receive his master’s degree in hospital pharmacy administration at Butler University in 1967. He moved his way through the levels of hospital pharmacy administration at VA hospitals in Kansas, Indiana, Illinois, and Florida, becoming chief pharmacist at the VA Hospital in West Haven, from which he retired in 1993. After initial retirement, he worked at the Yale University Health Plan pharmacy until 2007.

He and Barb loved camping and traveling all over the country with their children and their dogs, visiting many National Parks and other attractions. When their children were older, they enjoyed traveling internationally. He loved music, opera and theater. In addition to his wife, one of his constant show companions was his niece, Anne Davis. He was a big fan of the NY Mets, having attended games during their inaugural 1962 season, and subsequently for decades. He was a good listener, an avid reader, and had a great sense of humor.

He is preceded in death by his sister Virginia. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Fisher Francese; his son, James Francese; daughter-in-law, Lisa Panek Francese; and daughter, Beth Francese Constant; and son-in-law, Jonathan Constant. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: James A. Francese (Malika), Nicole Francese, Lauren Constant McInnis (Nick), Kelly Francese, and Alexander Constant; along with many nieces. He will be greatly missed.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6, at The Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society, followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to the Madison Food Pantry or the Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Society.