John Joseph Harrington, IV

John Joseph Harrington, IV, age 61, of Bethlehem, died peacefully on March 7, 2026 at Waterbury Hospital surrounded by his family. Born in Bridgeport on April 1, 1964, he was the son of Maureen Murray Armour and her husband David of Milford and the late John Joseph Harrington, III. Raised in Stratford, he graduated from Stratford High School in 1982.

John worked as a commercial truck driver for Asphalt Repairs Solutions Co. and was previously employed with CT Sealcoat Co. and in the construction industry. His true passion was owning and operating Hilly Acres Farm and Animal Sanctuary in Bethlehem, where he and his wife Denise lovingly cared for horses and many adopted animals, giving them a safe and nurturing home.

He was an avid HO model railroad enthusiast who enjoyed building and tinkering with his model railway diorama and attending local train shows with his grandsons. Above all, John will be remembered for his deep and abiding love for his family.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Denise Ann Russell Harrington; his children, Stephen J. Harrington of California, Katelyn M. Ruelle of Terryville, and John J. Harrington, V of Terryville; his sisters, Diane Harrington of Thomaston and Laura Harrington of Waterbury; his brother, James Harrington of Fairfield; his cherished grandsons, Raylan and Noah Ruelle of Terryville; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Gabriele “Gaby” Lukowski and Michele Lukowski of Seymour.