James P. Carrolan

Salem - James P. Carrolan, 90, of Salem, passed away peacefully at his home on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, surrounded by the people he loved.

Born on April 1, 1935, on Thomas Street in Salem, Jim was delivered by his aunt, Nancy Welsh—a fitting start to a life deeply rooted in family and community. He graduated from Salem Washington Academy in 1953, where he served as quarterback for the school’s undefeated six-man football team, remembered still for throwing the winning pass that sealed their perfect season in 1952. He went on to earn an associate degree from Farmingdale Ag & Tech School in 1956 and began his career with General Dynamics Corporation, Electric Boat Division, working in piping design in Groton, Connecticut.

Jim was a third-generation Irish-American, proud of his family’s heritage. His grandfather emigrated from County Cavan, Ireland, in the mid-1880s and settled in Salem, where he raised a large family—11 children in all. Jim was the son of Patrick Carrolan, one of those 11.

In 1957, Jim married Ellen Eighmey, who he met at Farmingdale, and the couple began their life together in New London, CT. But when Jim’s father suffered a stroke in 1959, they returned to Salem to carry on the family business, PJ Carrolan Electric which eventually became known as James P. Carrolan Electric—a name known in countless households across Washington County. Over nearly four decades, Jim wired homes and brought light to many families, building trust through his work ethic, honesty, and quiet generosity.

Jim believed in giving back to the community he called home. He was a lifelong member of Holy Cross Church and served as a trustee for 37 years and was a member of the Knight’s of Columbus.  He served on the Salem Town Board for 20 years and was a founding member of the Salem Rotary Club, where he played a pivotal role in introducing the student exchange program to the town. Those who knew him will remember his easygoing demeanor, his sharp wit, and the steady kindness he extended to all.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Mary (Welsh) Carrolan; his beloved wife, Ellen Eighmey Carrolan of 63 years; his son, Douglas Carrolan; a sister, Jean Borisenok.

He is survived by his children, Peter Carrolan of Salem, NY, and Susan Carrolan of Aspen, CO; his sister, Barbara Parrish of Saratoga, NY; his grandchildren, Kim Landry (Christopher) of Chesapeake, VA, and James Carrolan of Virginia Beach, VA; and his great-grandchildren, Ethan, Tyler, and Ryder. His family will carry on his legacy of quiet strength and commitment to service.

Jim’s family would like to thank the many caregivers who helped him.  Maria Modeste of St. Lucia, Marie Francoise Be of Bordeaux, France, Juan David Rodriguez of Bogota, Columbia and January Rowe who came from Florida and the local ladies, Mary Evans, Darlene Smith and Debbie Ouellette.

Calling hours will be held Friday, April 25, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, 19 East Broadway, Salem, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Holy Cross Church, 249 North Main Street, Salem. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Salem.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Jim may be made to the American Lung Association, PO Box 70360, Philadelphia, PA  19176.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Jim, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com.

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