Obituary for James E. Wilgis
Westerly - James E. Wilgis, 83, passed away at L&M Hospital on Monday, December 20, 2021. He was the husband of Carmela J. (Narciso) Wilgis who predeceased him on Nov. 17, 2020.
Born in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Laura Wilgis.
He devoted his life’s work to serving in the US Navy as a submariner, including overseas during the Vietnam War, later retiring as an Electrician’s Mate Master Chief Petty Officer. Jim then graduated from URI and gained employment at the Underwater Sound Lab until retiring. He was a life member of the Westerly Yacht Club, and also a member of the U.S. Power Squadron earning full certificate. Fishing and boating were his passions, but he loved to spend time with his grand and great-grandchildren at family gatherings.
He is survived by his two step children, Fred V. Jackson and wife Linda of South Kingstown and Jane Jackson of Warwick; two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his sister Marilyn Gilfert.
A private Funeral Service and Burial with Full Military Honors be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to American Heart Association. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com
Born in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Laura Wilgis.
He devoted his life’s work to serving in the US Navy as a submariner, including overseas during the Vietnam War, later retiring as an Electrician’s Mate Master Chief Petty Officer. Jim then graduated from URI and gained employment at the Underwater Sound Lab until retiring. He was a life member of the Westerly Yacht Club, and also a member of the U.S. Power Squadron earning full certificate. Fishing and boating were his passions, but he loved to spend time with his grand and great-grandchildren at family gatherings.
He is survived by his two step children, Fred V. Jackson and wife Linda of South Kingstown and Jane Jackson of Warwick; two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his sister Marilyn Gilfert.
A private Funeral Service and Burial with Full Military Honors be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to American Heart Association. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com