James J. Carroll, of Syracuse, NY, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. A devoted husband, father of seven, grandfather of eight, and lifelong educator, Jim’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and unshakable faith.

Born in Binghamton, Jim faced early adversity with grace, including the loss of his father just before college. He worked multiple jobs to put himself through Le Moyne College, where he earned his degree in history and political science. He later completed his master’s and doctorate at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School. These formative experiences shaped not only his career but also his lifelong mission to give back.

Jim spent over five decades in education, beginning as a high school teacher before moving into higher education at Syracuse University. He founded Project LEGAL, a civics program that empowered teachers and students across the country. His work reached thousands, with his focus on opening doors for the next generation—especially those with the fewest resources.

Despite continuing his life’s work into his 80th year, Jim found his deepest fulfillment at home. His wife, Mary, was the love of his life. Married for 58 years, they built a life grounded in mutual devotion, kindness, and service. In later years, as Mary faced the challenges of dementia, Jim remained her steadfast caregiver and constant companion. Jim and Mary were fixtures at local live concerts and die-hard supporters of SU basketball and football. Jim also loved going to plays and never missed an opportunity to take one in during his countless trips to New York City for teacher workshops in Harlem and the Bronx.

In March 2024, Jim and Mary made a generous gift to Le Moyne College—his alma mater and the place he credited with changing his life. The Carroll gift, the largest alumni donation in school history, established scholarships for students with financial need, funded endowed professorships, and supported instructional innovation. The College of Arts and Sciences now bears the name Carroll College, in honor of their enduring commitment to education.

Jim’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his wife, Mary; their children: Annemarie; James and Mary Jane and their daughter Anna; Thomas and Melanie and their daughters Mikayla and Delaney; Daniel and Shana and their children Daniel, Kathryn, and Clara; Stephen; Kevin and Michelle and their daughters Cassidy and Kayla; and Krista and Russell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Catherine Irene, and his brother, William.

Services will be held at Jim’s beloved St. Lucy’s Church in Syracuse on Thursday, June 26th. A viewing will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, or James J. ’66 and Mary A. Carroll Scholarship Fund at Le Moyne College.

Jim had an unwavering belief in God, love, and the power of education. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.