James Robert Gura

James Robert Gura, 85, of Southington, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, April 2, 2026. He was the loving husband of Brigitte (Blouin) Gura for 53 years.

Born on January 13, 1941 in Hartford, Jim was the son of the late Dr. George M. Gura and Elizabeth (Sullivan) Gura.

Jim graduated from Southington High School, Class of 1958 where he excelled in sports. After high school, he went on to play football at Kansas State and tried out for the New York Titans (NY Jets), making the 3rd cut. Jim worked as an Engineering inspector for the town of Southington, retiring after 40 years of dedicated service. Jim was an esteemed third-Degree Knights of Columbus and a longtime member of St. Thomas Church in Southington. He also served in the US National Guard Air Force reserves. Jim enjoyed doing projects in his yard, gardening and loved playing golf. Jim was an active member of the past Southington Valley Midget Football league as a coach for over 40 years. He cherished his time passing his love of football to generations of the children of Southington. He was also an active contributor to the development of the Southington Dog Park, where he spent many days talking with anyone and everyone.

In addition to his wife Brigitte, he is survived by two sons, James Gura Jr and wife Jennifer and Timothy Gura and Dhang Paredes, all of Southington, and four grandchildren, Lillian, Emily, Lauren and Evan Gura. He is also survived by his brother, Francis Gura, sister, Susan Fogerty and her husband Timothy sister-in-law, Janice Gura of Minnesota and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother, Dr. George M. Gura Jr. and sister, Patricia Conroy.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Lewis Educational Agriculture Farm (LEAF), 65 Blueberry Lane, Southington, CT 06489. (https://www.leafct.com/).

A Memorial service will be celebrated at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 5 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.