Philip Marshall James, 83, of North Haven, CT passed over peacefully in his sleep at home on October 5, 2017. Predeceased by the love of his life of 52 years Cynthia James. Philip was born in the seaside town of Cohasset, Massachusetts on September 15, 1934 to the late Robert B. and Hazel (Farrar) James. Growing up in Cohasset as a young boy, his love for Boston sports’ teams and hockey took root; living next to the town’s firehouse likewise started Phil’s life of volunteerism and public service. He attended Cohasset schools before attending Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire; graduating Class of 1956 and having a successful Ivy League hockey career. Phil moved to Wethersfield, CT in the late 50’s to join SNET while being a member of the Air National Guard for 6 years. In Wethersfield, Phil reconnected with his fire service childhood by joining the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department. When SNET moved Phil and his new wife to North Haven in 1964, he quickly signed on with North Haven’s Northeast Volunteer Fire Co. 4. Phil rose to the rank of Captain and Company Commanding Officer; protecting the life and property of North Haven residents for 32 years. Phil remains the longest-serving Captain in North Haven’s volunteer fire service history. He was an active 50 plus member of the North Haven Congregational Church. and participated in many town meetings on topics from Little League, and the Land Trust to emergency services. After retiring from SNET, he continued his community service by sitting on a retiree board allocating grants to New Haven area non-profits. He and his wife enjoyed traveling with friends, attending college athletic events throughout New England, as well as tending his vegetable and flower gardens, and raising two children. Father to Brian James of San Francisco, CA and Carla (Mike) Hill of Needham, Massachusetts. Brother to Marcia (Richard) Carthaus of Edina, Minnesota and Naples, Florida; and brother- in- law to Charles (Karleen) Gedney, Uncle to Kimberly Gedney, Kellie (Stephen) Panteleakous, and Paul (Holly) Gedney.
Visiting hours will be 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2017 at the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, North Haven, CT. The North Haven Fire Department providing an honor guard. Phil will be laid to rest Saturday, October 14, 2017. He will be carried on his “Final Call” by North Haven Fire Department’s Engine #5, the same engine company he commanded for 32 years. Services will be at 10 am, Saturday, October 14, 2017 at The North Haven Congregational Church, 28 Church Street, North Haven, CT. Burial to follow at Center Cemetery, Elm Street, North Haven, CT. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to The North Haven Congregational Church, 28 Church Street, North Haven, Connecticut 06473 and The Northeast Volunteer Fire Association, 366 Washington Avenue, North Haven, Connecticut 06473.
Carla, Brian
We are so sorry for your loss. Your dad was one of the first people I met joining Northeast and I continued to work with him as President of the association. He always kept me on my toes and I will sorely miss that. RIP Phil watch over Company 4 !
Susan Lane lost a Fine Man. Phil will forever be in our hearts. We will miss his phone calls asking how our end of the street is doing. Even if we were only 3 doors away from his house
R.I.P. Phil James.
I knew Phil for many years while he was active on the North Haven Land Trust’s board. He was very informative and was the leader of any excursions the board took looking at our properties, and as past treasurer, made sure that every penny was accounted for. He knew the town inside and out, and with his Boston accent, his fine wit and humor recounting sport games, stories of people in general, events, and of course the fire departments, recounting things with a glint in his eye, I found him to be a lot of fun to be with and listen to. He went on-site with some of the board members not long ago to look at the last property donated to us. A great guy. I will miss him.
Dear Brian & Carla,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your father. Phil was a most wonderful man and I did so love sparing with him on many subjects. I have always thought of him as a friend I could call on at any moment if advice was needed. Both your parents have always held a special place in my heart ❤️. I will never forget their kindnesses. I know he loved both of you with all his heart and was very proud of all your achievements. Lee and I will be out of town but please know that you and Brian are in my thoughts and prayers. A special man, your dad! God Bless.
Robin Lee Partyka
I am saddened and shocked to learn of the passing of your Dad. Mr. James was my Supervisor at SNET and a long time Friend. Wherever, whenever he was in our company, he would always make us laugh. He always wore a smile and was a kind and compassionate man. I am deeply and sincerely sorry for your loss. May your Dad be at peace and free from any pain as he takes up residence once again with his beloved Bride, Cynthia.
Love and Prayers,
Linda Houle
My deepest condolences to the James family and friends for the loss of your loved one Philip. Please read God’s wonderful promise for the loved ones we have lost in death it will give you hope and comfort in this difficult time John 5:28,29 and Revelation 21:3,4.
Brian and Carla,
So sorry for your loss, I was a volunteer under your fathers command for 25 years at Northeast. He was the best!! RIP Phil.
RIP Phil and thanks for all you did for No. Haven.