Obituary of James V. Tucci

James Vincent Tucci, Ph.D., age 87, passed away on April 11, 2026, in Trumbull, Connecticut.

Born on February 13, 1939, in Hempstead, Long Island, New York. Jim was the son of Francis Vincent Tucci and Marguerite Irene (Close) Tucci. He spent his early years in Hempstead, Franklin Square, and Freeport. As a teenager, he delivered newspapers and began working for a local veterinarian, a role he continued through his college years.

Jim attended Hofstra University, where he met his wife, Dorothy Helen Daus. They married on June 2, 1962, in Freeport, celebrating with a reception at the Guy Lombardo's East Point House before leaving the following day for Amherst, Massachusetts.

Jim earned his master's degree and Ph.D. in physics from the University of Massachusetts. In May 1966, while completing his doctoral studies in Massachusetts, he and Dorothy welcomed their daughter, Angela. Later that year, the family settled in Trumbull, Connecticut, where Jim began a long academic career at the University of Bridgeport.

Over decades at Bridgeport, Jim rose to Professor of Physics. He served as Chair of the Physics Department for many years and as Director of the Division of Science and Mathematics. He remained deeply committed to physics throughout his life, consulting with local companies on industrial manufacturing processes involving nuclear detectors, X-ray tubes, and electrochemical plating. His priority at Bridgeport was always the development of his students, and he was known for continually refining how he taught the analytical methods used by physicists.

Jim took pride in his Italian heritage and became fluent in the language. He was a loyal friend to many, including Mike, Harry, Nick, Peter, Rich, and Steve.

He loved Bernese Mountain Dogs and was devoted to his dogs throughout his life. Luca, one of his beloved companions, was able to be by his side near the end, thanks to the kindness and loving care of his good friend, Greg.

Above all, Jim was a proud father. He rarely missed his daughter Angela's games, and the two spent countless hours playing catch in the backyard—simple moments that helped shape Angela's athletic endeavors.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Angela, and her wife, Candice; his sister, Betty Jane; his nieces and nephews, Joe, Dan, Diana, Deb, and Jim; his grandniece, Grace; and Lori, who was loved like a niece. He is also remembered by the many colleagues, friends, and students whose lives he touched.

A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. Interment will follow in Long Hill Burial Grounds, Trumbull. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675. woundedwarriorproject.org To leave an online condolence, visit us at www.abriola.com.