Grandparents of James Mattioli, 6, killed in Newtown massacre, live in Sherrill, NY.
/ Courtesy: MGN/Family Photo
SHERRILL -- Jack and Cathy Radley's home is dark and empty on a quiet suburban street. With Christmas a week away, it's normally a happy time of year. Instead, Jack and Cathy Radley are preparing to bury their six year old grandson.
James Mattioli is one of 26 victims gunned down Friday in a massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT.
Anna and Carey Nye live next door to the Radley's. They've been close friends for years.
"She came over and told me on Friday there's a school shooting in CT. And I said yeah I know that. And she said my grandson goes to that school," says Carey Nye.
"James was adorable. He was a cute, little guy. When he laughed he gave a good laugh. And to know I'm not going to see that smile again because of this tragedy," says Anna Nye.
Anna and Carey say the Radley's lives revolved around their grandchildren. They have a swimming pool they rarely used, but keep it around for when the grandkids come into town.
"The Radleys are such wonderful people and it bothers me because they are such fine people," says Carey Nye.
"When they do come home, the small city of Sherrill will be here to support them in any way we can," says Anna Nye.
The Radley's have a difficult road ahead of them. But their neighbors will be waiting for them at home, with open arms.
Calling hours for James were held Monday. A funeral is planned for Tuesday at St. Rose of Lima Church in Newtown at 10 a.m. with burial to follow at St. John's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Darien, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, loved ones can donate to a memorial fund, the James R. Mattioli Memorial Fund c/o Newtown Savings Bank, 39 Main Street, Newtown CT 06470.
