James F. Simon

James F. Simon, 80, of Portsmouth, RI, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on December 9th, 2024.

Born in Louisville, KY, he was the son of the late James F. Simon, Sr., and Alice (Feeney) Spaulding.

James (Jim), a resident of Portsmouth, RI, for all of his adult life, received his Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from Roger Williams University, which paved the way for his successful career. He was known for his dedicated service as a mechanical engineer, working for Raytheon Submarine Signal Division for over 40 years until his retirement.

Upon retiring, Jim pursued his love for Tai Chi and became an instructor to many in the East Bay area. His commitment to the art led him to study in Hong Kong on multiple occasions. Jim's approach to Tai Chi embodied both grace and discipline, resonating with all who had the privilege of learning from him.

Jim was an avid traveler and particularly cherished his Father-Son trips which included adventuring to the Galapagos Islands and going on safari at Kruger National Park in South Africa. Jim had a strong connection to the ocean and grew up fishing, scuba diving, and sailing on the Narragansett Bay. In his later years he loved spending time in Provincetown, MA, with his family.

Jim is survived by his sons; James C. Simon (Ahmed), of Warwick, and Scott M. Burr of Portsmouth, his sisters; Claudette (Fred) Sisson, of Fall River, MA, Dorothy Spaulding, of North Chelmsford, MA, and Louise (John) Cahill, of Marion, MA. He additionally leaves his longtime companion; Charlene Dalton, of Coventry, and several nieces and nephews. Jim is predeceased by his loving grandmother, Myrtha Feeney, whom he adored.

Visiting Hours will be held on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 12:00 PM-3:00 PM in the Connors Funeral Home, 55 West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI. Burial will be private.

Donations in his memory may be made to the World Wildlife Fund, or The Nature Conservatory.