James E. "Jim" Keating Jr., 83, of Madison, beloved husband of the late Geraldine “Gerri” Culver Keating, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025 surrounded by his family at his home. He was born in New Haven on December 21, 1941, son of the late James E. and Ruth McKay Keating Sr. Jim spent his life rooted in the values of hard work, loyalty, and connection. He built a long and respected career as a sheet metal worker and was a proud member of Sheet Metal Local 40. His dedication to his job and the friendships with the people he worked with made him very proud. Jim's life was rich with family and friendships. He was married to the love of his life, Geraldine, for over 51 years. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Kristin (Tom) Schmidt and Robyn (Seth) Brady; grandchildren, Andrew (Yakima) Schmidt, Mia Brady, Hadley Brady, and Wilder Brady; and great-grandchildren, Grayson, Riley and Benito. Jim's memory is also cherished by his siblings; Patricia Keating, Robert Keating (Linda), William Keating (Betsy), Dennis Keating (Peggy) and Penelope Parillo. He was predeceased by his wife, Geraldine Keating; grandson, Colin Schmidt (Jessica); sister, Judy Kopjanski; brother, Kevin "Dusty" Keating (Michelle); sister, Kimberly Keating; and a brother-in-law, Peter Parillo. Jim was a true and loyal friend. He had multiple friends he still saw regularly from his early grade school years. Whether laughing with his friends over meals at the Copper Skillet or sharing a mischievous sense of humor with his siblings, he left a lasting impression on those around him. While his love for his friends was authentic, Jim also truly loved the peace and quiet of nature and the outdoors. Much of this time was spent at his beloved cabin in Vermont-a place that brought him true joy. He was an extremely talented whistler, and there was no better sound than when you could hear him in his garage or yard whistling to "his" birds. A devoted fan of the Red Sox, Jim enjoyed cheering them on surrounded by his family. May James E. "Jim" Keating's memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on TUESDAY, August 12, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd (Rte. 80), East Haven. Interment will be private. Family and friends may call from 4pm to 6pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Audubon Society at www.ctaudubon.org. Sign Jim’s guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
