James G. McCarrell, 95, of Lancaster, PA, formerly of Colts Neck, NJ, died at home on July 16, 2017, one day short of celebrating 69 years of marriage to his wife, Helen J. (Nicholas) McCarrell.

Born in Cicero, IL, James was a son of the late Dr. William and Hermina (Mense) McCarrell.

James proudly served in the US Army during WWII as a combat engineer in Europe. He graduated from Wheaton College (IL) in 1944 and later worked as a chemist for Western Electric in Chicago and Bell Telephone Laboratories in N.J. James was a long-time member of Lincroft Bible Church in NJ; he also enjoyed attending Christian Fellowship Church in New Holland. Jim’s favorite Bible verse was Romans 8:28. An avid traveller, he rarely missed an opportunity to tour some part of the world.

In addition to his wife, James is survived by three daughters: Mary Jo McCarrell of Lancaster, Beth Ann Petroff, wife of David, of Clarksburg, NJ, and Jeanne Marie Jackson, wife of David, of Lancaster; two siblings: Ruth Gray of Michigan and Daniel McCarrell, husband of JoAnn, of Minnesota; and 8 grandchildren: Hannah, Emily, Nicholas, Grace, Margaret, William, Charlotte, and Peter.

James was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Peter Allen McCarrell, and 6 siblings: Myrtle Stukes, William McCarrell, Gordon McCarrell, Paul McCarrell, Grace Rexilius, and David McCarrell.

James dearly loved his grandchildren, and especially enjoyed doing crossword puzzles with them during his later years. He passed on to them his love of reading and history, and his patriotic love of country--not to mention his enthusiasm for watching “Jeopardy.” James’ extended family was always very important to him. He was genuinely interested in others, and will be fondly remembered for the gracious hospitality and charming congeniality he showed the many guests that visited his and Helen’s home.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 21, 2017 at 3:00 PM at the Groff-High Funeral Home, 145 W. Main St., New Holland PA 17557 with Pastor Doug Bozung officiating. Interment will take place privately in Darien, IL. Viewing will be held on Friday from 1-3 PM at the funeral home prior to services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pacific Garden Mission, 1458 South Canal St., Chicago, IL. 60607.

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