JAMES H. HEARD JR.

JAMES H. HEARD JR., 76, passed away peacefully at River View Nursing Home, Coventry on Friday, May 8, 2026. He was the beloved husband of nearly 50 years to the late Cindy (Nagel) Heard.

Born in Meridian, Mississippi, James was a son of the late James H. Heard Sr. and Deedie Adams, her husband Donald “Don” Adams.  

James proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 6 years. After his Honorable Discharge, he then married the love of his life, Cindy, and the couple would raise their family in West Warwick, before settling in Coventry. Always a hard worker, James earned many accreditations throughout his career in the HVAC and Plumbing Trade. Ultimately, James earned his Master Plumber’s License, and worked for Brown University before his retirement.

In his spare time, James enjoyed travelling the country in his RV, always with Cindy by his side. While traversing the United States, they attended many NASCAR races, where James was always rooting for the Ford Racing Team. He was also a lifelong fan of the Atlanta Braves and could often be found with a Pepsi Cola in hand. He will truly be missed. 

James was the loving father of Sherri Heard of Cumberland, RI and Thomas Heard, his partner Christine Corbett of Sterling, CT. Brother of Lessie Fulmer (Albert Fulmer), David Heard (Tammy Cantillon), Beverly Heard (Arlene Morton), and Jerry Heard. Dear Brother-in-law to Larry Nagell (Eileen), and Robert Nagel (Diane). James and Cindy are also survived by their lifelong best friends, Patty and Al Lefebvre, Steve and Gail Larkin, and their adored grandpup and goodboy, “Loki”.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM in the Iannotti Funeral Home at MAPLE ROOT, 2000 Nooseneck Hill Road (ROUTE 3), Coventry, RI. Burial with Military Funeral Honors to follow at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter.

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