Obituary of John F. Fanning

WESTPORT, CONN John F. “Jack” Fanning, 80, of Westport, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024. Born in Lowell, Mass., to the late Francis and Agnes (Finnick) Fanning, Jack pursued studies at both Keith Academy and St. Anselm’s College. After receiving his BA, he served honorably in the U.S. Army, obtaining the rank of first lieutenant as an infantry officer in the 82nd Airborne. He earned several decorations during his tours in Vietnam, including the Bronze Star for actions during combat. Following his service, Jack was on the faculty at West Point. After completing his military service, Jack lived in New York City, where he studied art history at night and worked for New York Telephone until his retirement in 1991. During his retirement, Jack also worked as a stockbroker for Morgan Stanley, as well as a residential real estate agent for the Higgins Group. Jack loved living in Westport, sailing its waters, biking its roads, playing golf at Longshore and sitting by the cannons and far end of Compo Beach. Jack was a lifelong student of American history, read voraciously and was known to routinely complete the Sunday edition of The New York Times crossword puzzle. Above all, he loved his friends and family. Nothing in the world gave him more joy than gathering with those closest to him, always turning a good time into a great one. He will be remembered for his indomitable spirit, his wildly funny sense of humor, his thoughtfulness and kindness, his endless positivity, as well as his other-worldly grit and determination. In addition to his devoted wife, Sharon Fanning, Jack is survived by his loving son Michael J. Fanning and his wife, Jennifer Kupper of Westport; his cherished grandson, Jack; sister, Mary Broderick and her husband Frank of Hampton Beach, N.H.;nephews, Mark and Mac Broderick; and niece, Allison Novac. Jack was predeceased by his wife, Ann Marie Fanning and his son, F. Thomas Fanning. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Oct. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Assumption, 98 Riverside Ave. Interment with military honors will follow in Willowbrook Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Matthew 25 Ministries, an organization Jack’s cousin, Mary Finnick has devoted a large portion of her life to serving.