James B. Stewart

James Bruce Stewart, 86 of Milford, passed away peacefully comforted by his children on May 2, 2026. Jim was born on April 25, 1940, the son of James Clement and Catherine Landers Stewart of Stratford, CT. Jim graduated from Milford High School in 1958. He served as a Specialist 5 in the United States Army from 1958-62 and was in Germany for 3 and a half years as a helicopter mechanic. Jim was predeceased by his parents and his wife Nancy Jane Surgalis Stewart. He is survived by his loving sister, Joanne Hush, whom he affectionately called “Joey”; Kimberly and Gerald Couden of Milford; James and Jill Stewart of Madison; John Stewart and Lisa Spadaro of Trumbull; Julie and Jesse Rogers of Milford; and a wealth of caring grandchildren, Gerald (Meghan) Couden, Sarah (Jeffery) Gordon, Alyssa (Brian) Couden; Catherine (Josh) Couden; Justine Stewart; Trevor (Rachel) Stewart, Emma and Megan Stewart; and John and Darcy Rogers. He also leaves behind a legacy of great grandchildren - Adrian, Lucas, Addison, Gerald (J.J.), Hayden, Emersyn and Jack who all brought immense joy to his life. He was blessed by many wonderful relationships with family members and friends, including his companion Jan Tranquillo and his best friend Arthur “Artie” Smallwood. Jim was employed at the Southern CT Gas Company for 35 years. Along with his business partner William Byrnes, Jim opened “Treasures & Trifles”, an antique retail store. They had many great laughs and developed lifelong friendships with various customers and antique dealers nationwide. He was known for helping people in need and will be remembered for the kindness he bestowed on others. Calling hours will be held on Friday May 8 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Gregory Doyle Funeral Home, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday May 9th at 10 a.m. at Orange Center Cemetery on Orange Center Road, Orange CT. The family respectfully requests in lieu of flowers; donations be made to the Shriners Children or Hospice. To share a memory, please visit www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.