James Labbe, the beloved son of Jay and Linda Labbe of Baltic, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday June 20th. James was deeply loved by so many and his presence in our family will be grieved as we learn to live without him.
James was raised in Baltic most of his life. He spent many days of his childhood riding bikes up and down Plain Hill and all around his childhood home and the Farm with friends and with his brother Joel. James attended Sayles Elementary School in Baltic and graduated from Norwich Tech where he studied Automotive. At Norwich Tech he added to his already deep and innate knowledge of fixing all things mechanical. This knowledge served him well in life and was a deep source of joy for James.
James had the privilege of meeting many people all over the country who cared for him, invested in him, and walked with him on his life’s journey. These deep relationships continued to sustain him on his many travels.
In this life James was a bright and loving soul. If you came in contact with him, you would walk away encouraged and often smiling and laughing. James’ smile filled his whole face, and it was the physical evidence of the deeper love in his heart. His smile and laugh filled many places, people’s lives and family events with so much joy. Even in his final days he was sharing all he had with his family and friends.
James enjoyed spending time in nature and he was also comfortable being alone with his own thoughts, in prayer, reading and writing. James was always willing to help others and noticed people in need. His own struggles with addiction made him especially sensitive to people in pain. James was always happy to take time to be present with people in their joys and sorrows. James always found ways to give back whether it was stopping by to visit with people, praying for them, encouraging them, or fixing bikes and giving them away to kids he knew needed them. James felt things deeply his whole life. Joy and sorrow were his constant companions as he traveled through addiction.
James enjoyed Dirt Bike and BMX riding, fixing many bikes to donate to those in need. He also liked to hunt, fish and work on anything with wheels. He especially liked fixing hot rods with his Dad.
James loved his family deeply, especially his nephews Connor and Bodi. They will miss his ability to play freely while teaching them all his favorite hobbies. James always loved being around children, especially his nephews as children were drawn to his big heart and open arms filled with love.
Our family and community will deeply miss the physical presence of James as we continue in this life. We hope we will be able to keep sharing his story of addiction with the respect and love it deserves. He was not just his addiction, he was so much more and his fight and desire to remain sober was something he lived with every day. No one is reduced to one moment or one part of themselves. James’ life journey was filled with struggles, and it was filled with profound love.
The people who love him are left with the peace that in his final months he was thriving and living his fullest, most beautiful life. Please consider making a donation to Community Speaks Out so they can continue to provide education, resources and exceptional help to families in need!
http://www.communityspeaksout.org/jameslabbe
James is survived by his parents Jay and Linda Labbe of Baltic, his wife Rachael Cuff, his brother Joel Labbe and wife Ashley of Lebanon along with their 2 boys Connor and Bodi, grandparents Robert and Carol Labbe of Norwich and Beverly Labbe of Norwich, by numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins and by many friends who were like family. He also leaves behind his constant, tiny companion Lulu, the sweetest dog.
James was predeceased by his Grandparents Jesse and Margie Greenhalgh of Baltic.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Calvary Chapel, 126 Sharp Hill Rd. Uncasville CT 06482 on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 11:30 am. Visitation will be held from 10 am until the time of the service at 11:30. A Reception will be hosted immediately following the service outside at Calvary Chapel. All are welcome to attend.
Please visit www.churchandallen.com to leave a message for James’ family.
The Church and Allen Funeral Home, 136 Sachem St. Norwich, is entrusted with arrangements.
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