James F. Carlin 1940-2025
James F. Carlin, of Boca Grande, FL, and Newport, RI, passed away on March 2, 2025, in Newport, Rhode Island. Adored and adoring husband of Brenda (Egan) Carlin for over 60 years. Born in Boston, MA, on April 30, 1940, to James F. and Mary T. (Looney) Carlin, Jim grew up in Peabody, MA, and later Sarasota, FL. He graduated from Sarasota High School, where he served as school president, before earning his BSBA in accounting from the University of Florida in 1961.
Jim began his career as a construction auditor for Sealtest/Kraft Foods before working as an estimator for a plumbing company. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to establish and co-found more than 20 companies across various industries over five decades. He also served as a director for numerous privately held and NYSE-listed companies, including as Chairman of John Hancock Mutual Funds. Beyond business, Jim was a dedicated public servant. Over 20 years, four Massachusetts governors – both Democrats and Republicans – entrusted him with key leadership roles. He served as Commissioner of Commerce and Secretary of Transportation before taking on the challenge of stabilizing the bankrupt city of Chelsea, MA, a story later featured on 60 Minutes. He also chaired the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, working to improve access and affordability for students. In recognition of his contributions, he received honorary degrees from the University of Massachusetts Medical School and Boston University. Jim found joy on the golf course and the water, spending cherished time at Newport Country Club and Gasparilla Golf Club or aboard his boat, Persistence, with family and friends.
Above all, Jim’s greatest love was his family. He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Brenda (Egan) Carlin; his sons James F. Carlin III (Jamie) and wife Susan, John Carlin, and Matthew Carlin and wife Nicole; grandchildren Will, Grace, Madeleine, Katie (husband Jake Liebrock and their son Lennon), Kaela, Brendan, Julia, Regan, Jamie, and Jimmy; and his dear friend Helio Araújo. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Camille Carlin, Nancy (Egan) Seiler, Beth (Egan) Cook, and Lynn (Egan) Flynn; brothers-in-law John J. Egan Jr. and William P. Egan and wife Jacalyn; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brother Tom; brothers-in-law Earnest (Pete) Seiler, William (Sher) Flynn, and William (Bill) Batten; and sister-in-law Elizabeth (Betty) Egan.
Jim’s family is deeply grateful to the compassionate staff at Village House for their care and support. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, March 13, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustin Church, 2 Eastnor Rd., Newport, RI. Interment will follow at St. Columba Catholic Cemetery in Middletown, RI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Newport.
James F. Carlin
April 30, 1940 – March 2, 2025
