James “Jim” Louis LaBanca Jr., 64 of Trumbull and East Haven, was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, and a deeply cherished brother and son. He is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Joan (Bittner) LaBanca, and their daughters, Kristen and Abby LaBanca. His girls were the light of his life and his greatest joy.

Jim is also survived by his loving father, James LaBanca Sr., and stepmother, Patricia; his sisters, Liz Kannenberg and Tricia Enright, with whom he shared a close bond; as well as his step-siblings. He was the beloved son of the late Judith (Hummer) LaBanca, whom he always carried in his heart. Jim was a loving uncle to his niece and nephews and was predeceased by his nephew, Jack Enright. He is also cherished in memory by his parents-in-law, Joseph and Virginia Bittner; his brother-in-law, Joe Bittner; and fondly remembered by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.

Jim spent his childhood years in East Haven, CT and graduated from Notre Dame High School, in West Haven, CT. He continued his education at Albertus Magnus College, where he achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. He later attended the University of New Haven, where he proudly earned his MBA. Jim was highly career-driven and respected for his strong work ethic, having held several positions throughout his professional life, most notably serving as Chief Operating Officer at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Jim was passionate about devoting his time to the Sunshine Kids Cancer Foundation, an organization committed to providing positive group activities and emotional support for young cancer patients. He served as Chairman of the local chapter for numerous years.

Outside of work, Jim loved to spend time with his family, including his pets, Finnegan Benson and Opal Eloise. From a young age, he had a deep passion for cars, a trait which he shared with his late nephew, Jack. In recent years, Jim frequently visited Watkins Glen International race track, where he experienced driving a variety of cars. He enjoyed traveling to many destinations, but always found his way back to Block Island, a place especially dear to his late mother. As an avid skier, he skied the slopes of the Swiss Alps and many other mountains, near and far. Jim felt most at ease near the water. As a high school swim team member, he developed a lasting appreciation, notably reflected in his enjoyment of boating around with his father on the Sonny Boy. He deeply valued time spent with his close friends, affectionately known as The Sedona Six. Jim found true joy in the company of friends and loved ones.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday January 7, 2026 from 4 to 7 Pm in the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 AM in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven with Committal to follow at All Saints Cemetery in North Haven. In liu of flowers, please make donations to Sunshine Kids Foundation, 2814 Virginia, Houston Texas, 77098 in memory of James Louis LaBanca Jr.

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