James Cushing Obituary

Waterford- James Collins Cushing peacefully departed this world at home, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, April 6th 2021. Jim was a man with a huge heart and will best be remembered for his hugs, his smile and his love for all who had the great fortune to know him.

Jim leaves behind the love of his life, Phyllis Cushing, who he married on June 22, 1957. Together, they raised five children Richard Cushing married to Jan Ayer of Niantic, Paul Cushing married to Karen Blodgett of Waterford, Anne Scheel married to Robert Scheel of Lyme, Christopher Cushing of Old Lyme and Julie Wilson married to John Wilson of Niantic. Jim was known as “Grampy” to his 13 grandchildren and “Great Grampy” his 11 great grandchildren. His family was the most important part of his life.

Jim is also survived by a sister Mary Leonard of Tolland, CT and a sister Rose Johnson of Brandon Florida and many nieces and nephews.

Jim and Phyllis moved their family from Peabody, Ma, and settled in Waterford in 1965 when Jim, a U.S. Airforce Veteran, accepted a new position as a contract negotiator at the Supervisor of Ship Building in Groton, CT. Jim retired as the Chief Procurement Officer at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London.

This beautiful man has left a lasting legacy. The cherished memories will be everlasting in the hearts of all that knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be planned for a date in the future.


If you wish to make a donation in Jim’s memory, please pick an organization that is dear to your heart.

Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home have been entrusted with handling the arrangements. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.