Jeffrey P. Vannais, 68, of Wales, Massachusetts, passed away, July 29, 2019. Jeffrey was the communications supervisor for the town of East Hartford, Connecticut, for 25 years. He was instrumental in bringing E9-1-1 to the state of Connecticut. He was a former chief of Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Service and served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.

Jeffrey was born in Englewood, New Jersey, October 8, 1950, to the late Phil Vannais and Marion (Elfgren) Kronenberg. He was a graduate of Southbury High School in Connecticut. He graduated from Central Connecticut State College with a bachelor of science degree in industrial technologies and public Safety administration. Jeffrey was a resident of Vernon, Connecticut, for many years before moving to Wales, Massachusetts, 16 years ago. While living in Wales he served as a Selectman for nine years. Jeffrey enjoyed reading, wood working, HO model trains, birds of prey and was an excellent cook.

Jeffrey leaves his wife Janis M. Vannais; his children, Charles Vannais, Jason Vannais and Sara-Lynn Vannais; a sister Nicollette Vannais and six grandchildren; Joshua, Brianna, Samantha, Zachary, Sydney, Alexander and his dogs Tucker and Bernie. He was predeceased by a son Kevin Vannais and a brother Stephen Vannais.

A memorial reception for family and friends will be held Saturday, August 10 from 1-5 p.m. at the First Congregational Church of Coventry in the church hall.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dakin Humane Society 171 Union St. Springfield, MA 01105 or the Connecticut Humane Society 701 Russell Rd. Newington, Ct 06111.