James A. Carlin Sr.

James Albert Carlin, Sr. (Jim) was born on April 10, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan and passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024.
Jim is now reunited in heaven with his beloved mother and father, Marjorie Ann Carlin and John Bernard Carlin, Sr. He was the dear brother of Mary Pryde (Bruce), the late John Bernard Carlin, Jr. (Jane), and the late Susan Turner (the late William). His unconditional love lives on in the hearts of his wife, Lorraine, his children, Dianna, James (Erica), Christina, and Katy (Adam Weaver), and his grandchildren Charles, Luke, Austin, Francesca, Victoria and Zander, whom he loved beyond measure.
Jim grew up in Detroit and attended grade school at St. Cecilia's and high school at Saint Mary's of Redford. He earned a Bachelor's degree from Wayne State University, a Juris Doctor degree from University of Detroit Mercy Law School and a Masters in Law degree from Wayne State University. He valued education and was proud that he worked his way through school, most of that time unloading trucks during night shifts at Ford Motor Company, heading directly to class when his shift was over. This work ethic and perseverance would be the hallmark of his life and legal career.
After graduating, Jim worked tirelessly to build a legal career that spanned 52 years. He was well-respected for his legal expertise, meticulous preparation and passion for helping his clients. He was especially proud of the many law students and new attorneys that he mentored over the years. Jim considered his colleagues in his law office to be an extension of his family and deeply valued their friendship. He had a passion for using his legal acumen to help those truly in need. His work with ACCESS in Dearborn exemplified this spirit of service and he enjoyed learning about the stories of the people there and helping them navigate the legal system. In 2014, he received the Purple Rose Award from ACCESS for outstanding contributions and advocacy against domestic violence. He was quick to lend a helping hand and many of his friends and acquaintances have stories of when Jim quietly offered legal counsel without recognition, simply to help them in a time of need.
Jim loved the simple things in life - his family, his cottage up north, sharing stories, and his law practice. His greatest joy was his family and his eyes always lit up when talking about them. Anyone who crossed paths with Jim likely heard him express his boundless pride in his children and grandchildren. His love for family and service was evident throughout his children's lives, including when they attended St. Hugo of the Hills School in Bloomfield Hills, MI. Jim's involvement and dedication made a significant impact at the school and in the community. As his children grew, he continued to be a wise mentor and constant support. His love for his family grew stronger as he watched his grandchildren grow. He found great joy in his role as Grandpa "Batman." Jim's love for his family knew no bounds and he never let there be any doubt how proud he was of each of them.
He loved connecting with others and hearing about their lives. His love of story extended into a passion for genealogy, spending countless hours researching the Carlin family history. He was tremendously proud of his family's journey and loved sharing what he learned with others.
Jim will be missed, but there is no doubt that the contributions made during his life left an eternal imprint on his family, friends, colleagues, clients and community. He lived a life dedicated to helping others and was deeply loved.
Family will receive friends on Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 2:00 pm -8:00 pm at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers, & Connell Chapel) 32515 Woodward Ave (south of 14 Mile) Royal Oak, MI 48073. A Rosary will be held at 7:00pm.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 14, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church Stone Chapel 2215 Opdyke Rd. Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304. Visitation begins at the church at 9:30am.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to ACCESS in honor of James A. Carlin, Sr. Donations may be made online or mailed to ACCESS 2651 Saulino Court, Dearborn, MI 48120.