James V. Grace

James V. Grace, also lovingly known as Sparky and Pop, 75, of Tilton, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2019 following a very brief illness. He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Jim was born in Jersey City, NJ on November 30, 1943 to James F. Grace and Margaret (Duncan) Grace. He was raised in NJ and educated in area schools. Upon graduation, Jim enlisted with the United States Air Force and proudly served his country, fulfilling one tour of duty in Vietnam prior to honorable discharge. Following his time in the service, while living in California, Jim married Elaine Perkins on June 20, 1979 and the couple moved to NH in 1981 and started a family. In NH Jim took a job as a machinist with Continental Machine, a career which spanned 30 years. He also drove a school bus for Continental for many years and eventually trained to become the driving instructor.

Jim was a devoted Christian with a deep love of the Lord. He was also an avid sports fan enjoying football and all forms of baseball, whether he was playing, coaching, or watching. He played for the Mets for a short period during wartime, he coached all his kids' teams, and could usually be found cheering for his beloved Mets and Red Sox during televised games. Jim spent countless weekends with his family camping at Quechee Gorge, VT. He also enjoyed many cribbage games at American Legion Post #49, and Friday night dinner dates with his wife and their best friends, Gary and Kathy Therrien. Described by those who knew him best as a hard-working, loyal family man with a great sense of humor, Jim was someone you could count on for anything. He was generous without need and a good-natured trouble maker. Above all else, Jim adored his family. He was intensely proud of his children and grandchildren, and recently found himself wrapped around the little finger of his brand new 3-month-old great-granddaughter. Never wanting to burden another with his troubles, he always had a smile on his face and kindness in his heart.

Jim is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Elaine (Perkins) Grace; sons, James V. Grace and wife, Michele of Manlius, NY, Darrin Apichell and wife, Amy of Concord, NH, Tyler Grace and wife, Melissa of Lisbon, NY and Tilton, NH; sisters, Doreen Kenney of Lancaster, CA and Margaret Gordon and husband, Rick of Tehachapi, CA,; 9 grandchildren in NH and NY; and the newest family member, his great-granddaughter, Tallie. He leaves behind several other extended family members and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother, Terry and sister, Fran.
The family will receive visitors Saturday, January 26th 2:00pm-4:00pm at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 172 King Street in Boscawen. Service will begin at 4:00 in the funeral home chapel. TO view an online Tribute, leave a message of condolence for the family, or for more information, please go to www.phaneuf.net.