James was born in Orange, New Jersey to Josephine S. (nee Smith) and James Holmes Farrell, Sr. on October 9, 1932. He was raised in New Jersey and received a commission as a Lieutenant in the United States Army in 1954, completing training as an Army Ranger. He attended Niagara University, receiving his BA in 1956 and later his MBA from Rutgers University in 1961. He and his wife raised three sons and one daughter in New Jersey and Northern Virginia while he worked in communications for New Jersey Bell, AT&T, and Bell Atlantic, eventually retiring as the Executive Director for Federal Relations.

He is the beloved husband of Cecilia Agnes (nee Levy) Farrell; devoted father of Tony (Annie) Farrell, Amy (Steve) Stern, Mark (Raf Jimenez) Farrell and Nicholas (Laura) Farrell; cherished grandfather of Abby Farrell, Max Farrell, David Stern, Drew Stern, Thomas Farrell and Logan Farrell; and dear brother of Mary McDermott.

James was always surrounded by family.  He was an avid reader and was known for two pieces of wisdom he liked to share. First, read a good book. Second, keep everything in moderation. He was very loved by his family and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to https://www.topss.org/donate