James Brian Connors

It is with sorrowful hearts that we announce the passing of James Brian Connors on August 24, 2025.  He was born on January 9, 1940 to John Clifford Connors and Martha Pearl (nee Butler) Connors.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Nancy Jordan.

James met his wife, Joan Riva, at a dance while she was attending nursing school in Clearfield, PA, where James was born.  They married on October 19, 1963 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Barnesboro, PA.  James served in the Navy and was honorably discharged.  After leaving the military, James attended and graduated from Penn State University.  He worked for McDonnell Aircraft in St. Louis, MO.  James moved to Maryland to work at Vitro Corporation (now BAE Systems), from which he retired.

James was a devoted member of St. Peter's Catholic Church, where he made many friends over the years.  He enjoyed spending time with his wife of 61 years, Joan, as well as his sons, Brian (Renee) and Michael (Christina); also with his five grandchildren, Matthew, Jamie, Samantha, Kendall, and Andrew.  James also leaves behind many beloved nephews and nieces.

James was born a kind soul with a keen interest in auto racing of all types, writing racing articles and performing public relations duties.  He enjoyed yard work and landscaping as well as traveling with his wife, Joan.  He adored his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren with all his heart and was a supportive husband, father, grandfather, and friend to everyone he met throughout his life.

Friends and family will gather to pay their respects to James on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at St. Peter's Catholic Church (2900 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, MD 20832); where the Visitation will begin at 10am and the Funeral Mass at 11am.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peter's Parish.

James' family and friends will always remember him for being an amazing person who touched so many lives with his kindness and lively spirit.  James will be deeply missed.