James Joseph Vance, 65, beloved husband of Sara (McQuay) Vance passed away peacefully on January 17, 2014. He was born on May 1, 1948 in Waterbury, Connecticut to the late William and Margaret (Carey) Vance. Jim retired in 2007 as CEO for the Connecticut State Lottery Corporation, and continued to pursue two of his favorite pastimes: golf and UConn sports. He was active in his community, volunteering time at his church, and he was a long-time member of the Coventry Chapter of the Knights of Columbus, The Lions Club and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is survived by his wife Sara; his sons, Christopher Vance of Somerville, MA, and Michael Vance (Lauren) of Greensboro, NC; his brothers, William Vance, Stephen Vance (Judy), Robert Vance, and Raymond Vance (Rita); his sister, Sheila Molaver (Jonathan); and countless friends and extended family members. Relatives and friends may join the family on Tuesday, January 21, 2014 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at the Coventry-Pietras Funeral Home, 2665 Boston Turnpike, Coventry, CT 06238. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Church, Coventry (please meet at the church). Burial will follow at Nathan Hale Cemetery in Coventry. For online condolences please visit www.pietrasfuneralhome.com