James William Carlin, a resident of Union, Mississippi has passed away.

Born on February 3, 1951, in Long Branch, New Jersey, "Jim", as he was known in the North, grew up in Navesink, New Jersey. His childhood was filled with a love of football, friends and dogs. As a child, he was a lot smaller than the other kids, but he did not let that stop him from going against the biggest athletes, a point of pride for him.

The third child of Elizabeth Adams Carlin and Harry John Carlin, Jim had two older sisters, Ann and Jane, whom he teased relentlessly (Jane was happy to give it back!). Later on, he showered attention on his niece Betsy and nephew Rob, showed off his artistic ability to all, and gained a reputation as the neighborhood trickster. His later brother-in-law Bob Stader was an incredible mentor and influence.

He attended the Middletown, NJ Public Schools, graduating from Middletown Township High School. His post-high school education included a stint in college, but the trades were more aligned to his talents.

Sadly, Jim's parents died during Jim's youth, causing him a great sense of loss and sadness. On a lark, he and three friends bought an old boat, fixed it up, and sailed from Rumson, New Jersey to the Caribbean, finally returning to the United States, via New Orleans, where he lived for several years before settling in Union, Mississippi. He was a welder on the oil rigs, proud of his trade.

It was there in Union that "Jamie", as he was known in the South, met his bride-to-be Rachel Gelene Graves and her family. He decided then and there that Union, Mississippi was where he wanted to spend the rest of his life. He and Rachel settled into the home where they both enjoyed the years they had together. Rachel's family loved Rachel and Jamie; he felt the full love of her extended community. Rachel's death in 2016 was a terrible blow to him.

Dogs played a very important role in Jamie's life. The joy they brought to him was boundless. At some point, he had five, and according to him, never enough, all spoiled rotten…

All through James' life, he was a staunch supporter of minority rights and railed strongly against racism.

Since 2020, James William Carlin had been living at Bedford Care Center, in Newton, Mississippi. He was well-cared for, right up until the end, having both Bedford staff and Hospice at his side until he drew his last breath.

He will be buried next to his lovely Rachel. May they both rest in peace.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am, Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at Milling Funeral Home in Union. The family will see friends one hour prior to the service.