James Duplese was born on December 12, 1928, to James F. and Delia (Kelleher) Duplese. He lived in Derby all of his childhood and attended and graduated from St. Mary’s Elementary School and Derby High School where he was active in dramatics, varsity baseball and basketball, and the marching band.
James served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged upon his return from Korea. After working a few years in industry, James entered New Haven State Teachers’ College (now Southern Connecticut State University) from which he received a Bachelor of Science degree, and where he participated in varsity baseball, basketball, and various dramatic and musical productions. At the beginning of his sophomore year, his classmates elected him class president. He continued his professional education at Fairfield University from which he earned a Master of Arts degree as well as a Sixth Year Certificate in public school administration. James’ entire career in education took place in the Derby School System where he served as teacher and supervising principal of both Lincoln Elementary and Derby Middle School. For his last four years in education, he filled the post of Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Later, at the time of his retirement from education, he entered the University of Bridgeport School of Law and earned a Juris Doctor degree, after which he maintained a regular law practice for twenty-four years.
James enjoyed membership in several educational and legal organizations as well as Richard Marazzi’s baseball discussion group known as the Silver Sluggers and the St. Teresa of Avila Men’s Club. He also was a member of the Connecticut Hurricanes for approximately thirty years during which he served as its Drum Major.
He loved all sports, especially baseball which he played whenever he could. He had followed the Atlanta Braves since he was a teen-ager when the team was named the Boston Braves. He also enjoyed watching the New York Football Giants and the UConn Women’s Basketball team.
Pre-deceased by his parents, he is survived by a daughter, Kelly, five sons, James, Kevin, Thomas, Daniel, and David, as well as a stepdaughter, Lisa, and his sister, Claire McCarthy of Derby.
A mass of Christian burial will take place on Monday February 24, 2025 at 10:30am held at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church located 910 Main St. S. Southbury, CT 06488.
To leave an online condolence please visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.
