Holliston-

James P. Connors, 61, of Holliston, died Sunday, May 6, 2007 after a short, but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer at Philip Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, RI . Born in Waltham, he was the son of the late James and Hazel (Court) Connors.

A former resident of Newton and a Holliston resident since 1976, he was a graduate of St. Mary’s in Waltham and received his Bachelor’s at Bentley and a Master’s of Education at Cambridge College. He was an Army Veteran and had worked for 12 years at RI Hospitals as well as many other hospital in the past. He was involved in the American Society of Healthcare Environmental Services “Ashes” for 20 plus years. James held many offices and received many awards. He enjoyed playing softball in a few different leagues.

He leaves his wife Maryellen of Holliston to whom he was married for 33 years, 3 sons, Timothy of Holliston, David and his fiance Megan of Long Island, NY., and Mark of Holliston, 1 brother, Joseph Connors of Alabama, and 1 sister, Gail Horsefield of Marshfield, MA. He also leaves many in laws and many friends. He is predeceased by a sister, Joan Hawkins, who passed in 2006.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 9, 2007 from 4-8p.m. at the Chesmore Funeral home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. (Rt. 16)www.chesmorefuneralhome.com. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, May 10, 2007 at 10:00a.m. at the St. Mary’s Church of Holliston. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 8 Church St. Holliston, MA. 01746, or Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St. Providence, RI 02903