James C. Reilly Dies at 78

James Reilly Obituary

James "Jim" Christopher Reilly, (1946-2025) 78, of Greenwich, Connecticut, passed away in late October 2025.

A consummate artist in every sense, Jim devoted his life to creativity, craftsmanship, and the belief that art-whether a painting, a sculpture, or a handmade object-held the power to enrich everyday life. He trained at the Silvermine College of Art and then University of Pennsylvania as a painter and sculptor. He valued the skill, integrity, and humanity in artisan work and thought every person deserved art as part of everyday life. He helped to found the Art Barn in Greenwich, which was based on the philosophy of the Arts and Crafts Movement. To Jim, craftsmanship was as meaningful as any masterpiece, and he championed it throughout his life.

Jim had a special interest in World War II that was inspired by his father and aunts and uncles. He served in the Army and shared his art there, including painting murals in the dining hall at Fort Lewis. His military experience shaped both his artistic focus and his deep commitment to community service. He later worked with Vietnam Veterans Against the War. With a particular expertise in military art, he blended his creative talent with his dedication to history and service. His compelling paintings of Native Americans and soldiers show his long-term interest in military art.

In Greenwich, he offered his creativity generously. He ran for Greenwich Selectman twice in 2011 and 2015. His volunteer work included contributions to Greenwich Point-most memorably his hand-carved totem poles, which are symbolic of his craftsmanship, imagination, and love for the town he called home. He had a second home in Stratford, Ontario in Canada where he was an active member of the arts community and he was a dual citizen.

Jim was committed to his family and had caregiving responsibilities for his brother Tom and his mother Felicia. Jim is survived by his niece, Kara (Exeter, England); his nephews, Conor and Sean (Ohio); and his cousins, Terry, Pat, Chris, and Margaret (Michigan) Felicia Willard, (Quincy, Massachusetts). Peter Willard (Bennington, Vermont), Mary Downs (Washington, D.C.).

He was known for his big personality and his storytelling about the family. Jim loved Ireland and could sometimes be seen driving around Greenwich in his station wagon with gigantic Celtic wings. Jim will be remembered his artistic vision and his unwavering belief in the beauty of handmade work. His family, friends, fellow veterans, and the Greenwich community will miss him.