James Leon Eastland, Sr., 87 of Pittsfield, MA passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on February 4, 2023.

Born in Pittsfield on July 7, 1935, he was the son of Joseph and Irene Street Eastland.

James was a United States Army Veteran and was stationed in Germany as a Staff Sergeant.

He married the love of his life; Ethel Adeline Allessio on August 20,1955 at Saint Mark's Church in Pittsfield, MA. Ethel predeceased him on May 7, 2021.

James was a Heavy Equipment Operator for many years at Petricca Industries where he met lifelong friends and found a beautiful piece of land where he and Ethel later would build their dream home. Here they shared many happy memories with their family and friends on the Island. James enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling, playing cards, Tuesday morning breakfast with the "Breakfast Club" and spending time with his good friend Sue Eastland. His biggest joy was having his family together and spending time with his grandchildren.

James is survived by his son, James L. Eastland, Jr., and wife Patty of Gloversville, NY. Daughter, Susan Eastland McMahon of Dalton, MA (Eric Ellsworth). Sister, Patricia Eastland Smith of Pittsfield. Brothers, Brian Harrington of NY, and Kevin Harrington of Pittsfield. Four grandchildren, Gwendolyn Ossenkop (Peter), Audra McMahon (Jeff Heller), Adele Lanza (Steve), and Teri McMahon. Five great-grandchildren Andy and Nick Lanza, Ian and Patrick Ossenkop, and Michael McMahon, Jr.

James was predeceased by brothers Archie, William, and Michael Eastland. Sisters Helena, Gabrielle, Mary Ellen, Rhoda, and Elaine Eastland.

Services will be held privately for family with a Celebration of Life to follow. In lieu of flowers: memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter in care of Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St., Pittsfield, MA 01201.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Berkshire Eagle on Feb. 11, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for James Eastland

Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.

21 Entries

annie bennett

September 20, 2024

my condolences to Jims family, I didn't know he had passed away, He was a really good man. I met him while he was working on our road. He would eat his lunch with my Mother and me, in my gazebo and called my property shangrila, we also had a mutual friend. So sorry to hear of his passing. I was wondering what happened to him. Now I know. God Bless his family and friends.

Steve Bokankowitz

February 17, 2023

Susie and Family,
Condolences to you and your family. Jim was a good guy.
He always greeted me with a great smile. He was always a joy to be with.

Carol Newberry

February 17, 2023

Susie and family
I am so very sorry for the loss of your dad. Sending you love and many hugs! Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. XOXO

Bill Bateman

February 15, 2023

Sue & Family , condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Dad.

Chico & Patty Martin

February 14, 2023

Sue & Family we are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. We know how close you were to each other. Our sincere condolences to everyone. We will keep everyone in our prayers.

Alan Pepperman

February 13, 2023

Jim, so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. I remember he was kind enough to take me fishing with you on many occasions. I must have missed the obituary for you Mom. I remember her as very kind as well, she made peach frappes for us when I came to play music with you on violin/viola. Sorry for your loss. Alan

Michael McMahon

February 12, 2023

Condolences to Jim's family on his passing. He was a very warm and friendly guy who was well-regarded wherever he went. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Dave Condron

February 12, 2023

Dear Susan and family, I'm very sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like he was a great man. Dave Condron

Steven VanBramer

February 11, 2023

To the Eastland family sorry to hear about Jim Sr. I knew him way back when I worked for City Tire .I was always at the lake house,my thoughts and prayers are with you all he was a great man and friend

Michael Filpi

February 11, 2023

Jim and Sue. So sorry to hear about your dad. Great memories with your family that I will cherish forever

James and Mary Eastland

February 11, 2023

James Eastland family may your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. We have so many special memories of Uncle Jim and Ethel .

Kruger family

February 11, 2023

James, Susan & family. So sorry for your loss. We enjoyed spending time with him and your mom at gramma Greb´s home sitting on the stoop. Always lots of laughs!

Dusty

February 11, 2023

Susie & family. My heart cries, but I know Ethel welcomed him with open arms!!! Heartfelt condolences...

Claire Velyvis and Family

Planted Trees

Mary Eastland

February 11, 2023

Rest in Peace, Uncle Jimmy.

Jim Ditello

February 11, 2023

The members of the Tuesday morning coffee club will miss Jim. He was a good man and a very good friend, who was always willing to help others in any way he could. We will miss him on the Island. Jim Ditello

John A. Bernardo

February 11, 2023

My condolences to the family. May the fond and loving memories be a comfort and always be with you.

Linda Herzig

February 11, 2023

So sorry to see this. Uncle Jimmy was a great guy! I have so many memories! His wedding was the first wedding I attended. I remember it to this day. His closeness to my dad was so special. Recall them getting a camper stuck in the street on Main St in Dalton. He was a loving person and such a wonderful laugh. He was so proud of his family.

Joe Gomes

February 11, 2023

Jim, Kevin, Brian and the entire family, my condolences on the loss of Jim Sr. It's very hard to lose your dad and family leader but know that he had a good long run and he'll be watching over you all.

Tom & Katinka

February 11, 2023

Sue and family,
We are very sorry for your troubles.
Tommy and Katinka

David Eastland

February 11, 2023

Jim and Sue
Your family is in my prayers .

Showing 1 - 21 of 21 results