FEEDING HILLS – James V. Polmatier, Jr., 81 (1944-2026), passed away on April 16, 2026. He was born in Westfield to the late Catherine (Noonan) and James Polmatier, Sr. Jim worked as a baker for more than 50 years at several local bakeries. He appreciated the quiet hours before dawn, which suited his gentle and quiet nature.
Jim looked forward to his monthly family lunches with his siblings, Marie and Bill, along with his niece Beth, who brought everyone together. He also enjoyed car rides to New Hampshire with his brother Bill. Although he was a man of few words, Jim treasured his conversations with his sister Alice; they spent hours on the phone joking and laughing. Jim found peace outdoors, whether soaking up the sunshine, breathing in the fresh air, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee on his deck. He had a passion for woodworking, even making custom wood jigs for his projects. Jim enjoyed music, traveling with his wife, reading the New York Post, and researching his family’s genealogy.
James was predeceased by his wife, Alice (Burroughs) Polmatier, in 2016. He is survived by his three daughters, Patricia Patridge and her husband Steven of Westfield; Tami Shea and her husband James of Springfield; and Teresa Serella and her husband Robert of Southwick. Jim has seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his longtime friend, Mike Whalen of Westfield, whose steady and loyal friendship was something he truly valued. His family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Care One at Redstone for the care and support shown to Jim. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. A funeral home service will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Firtion Adams followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery on Southampton Road in Westfield. www.firtionadams.com
