Obituary of James V. Massey

James Jay V. Massey,III, age 61, of Stratford, died suddenly on Saturday, November 13, 2004 at his home in North Carolina. Born in Bridgeport on June 17, 1943, he was a son of Florence Del Vecchio Massey of Jupiter, Florida and the late James Massey II. Mr. Massey lived in the Bridgeport area most of his life, although he also had homes in Florida and North Carolina. Mr. Massey was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve and attended Southern Connecticut State and Yale Universities. Mr. Massey was a founder of two highly successful medical laboratories offering quality services to the public and medical profession. He first founded Columbia Medical Laboratories in Bridgeport and, later, Medical Laboratory Services, which employed hundreds of people in the Bridgeport area for nearly 3 decades beginning in the 1970s. Mr. Massey also held several patents and co-invented medical technology that is still in wide use today.

He was a member of Miamogue Yacht Club and served on the Board of Governors up until the time of his death. He was an avid and accomplished sport fisherman, having won numerous tournaments over the years. He was a devoted beagle owner and his love for the breed was evident in just about everything he touched. He had a great love for music and loved to cook and entertain, especially for family and friends. He will be especially remembered for the kindness and generosity he extended to so many people during his lifetime.

Survivors include his devoted companion, Sandra Thomas of Stratford, children, James V. Massey, IV, Joann Gabris and Jason Nichols, several grandchildren and several siblings. 

Friends may call on Thursday, November 18, 2004 from 4-8 p.m. at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull, CT 06611. Private interment services will be conducted at the convenience of the family. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to SoundWaters, 1281 Cove Road, Cove Island Park, Stamford, CT 06902 or visiting www.soundwaters.org