Obituary: James Robert Riordan

James R. Riordan, 85, of Derby, beloved father and grandfather, passed peacefully into eternal rest on April 30, 2022. Born in Derby to the late James J. and Anna (Dokla) Riordan on March 5, 1937, James is survived by sons Dennis (Maureen) of Milford and Mark of Plainville; daughter Mary of New Britain; and grandsons Tyler and Ryan Riordan of Milford. He was predeceased by sons Patrick and Jimmy. James is also survived by Sheila Boyd, his longtime partner and companion, and Sheila’s children (Susan (Glenn), Jim (Jennifer), and Fred (Kim)) and grandchildren. Jim earned a Bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University and a Master’s degree from Suffolk University. He briefly served in the US Army, with an honorable discharge, followed by a 34-year career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (31 years as a special agent). He was happiest being among family and led a quiet and content life with Sheila, with whom he enjoyed watching Boston Red Sox and Green Bay Packers games, caring for their dogs, and traveling to Venice, Florida annually. His patience, big heart, and quiet sense of humor were some of his greatest qualities. On Thursday, friends are invited to his Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 PM at St. Mary Church, 212 Elizabeth St., Derby. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation https://www.parkinson.org/ or the Knights of St Patrick (New Haven) https://www.knightsofstpatrick.org/. The Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth St., Derby has been entrusted with his arrangements. Friends may leave condolences at www.adzimafh.com.