James was born at home in Roslindale, MA on November 22, 1927. He joined the USMC on October 4, 1945, where he was stationed in Tsing Tao, China and saw action is Okinawa. He earned an honorable discharge October 3, 1949. He received a good conduct, WWII freedom medal. On November 1, 1950, he was recalled to duty for the Korean War Conflict. He saw action at the Chosin Reservoir and was proud to be called one of the few “Frozen Chosin.” He earned a good conduct medal and ending title was Staff Sergeant when he was honorably discharged on December 21, 1951. James worked as an electrotyper for many years for New England Electrotype.
Along with his love for his family and the Marine Corps, James enjoyed oil painting, model airplanes and his knowledge of history.
He married his beloved wife Marguerite M. (Laughlin) on September 22, 1954. Marguerite passed away in 1976. James is survived by his daughter Joan Costigan and her husband Harlie of Norwood, Nancy Barrett of Walpole, and Mary Lou Allen and her husband Harry of Norwood. He was also predeceased by two infant daughters (“his angels”) Margaret Marion and Susan Theresa. He was much loved by his grandchildren Dennis Costigan and his wife Geraldine of Norwood, Colleen Costigan and Andrew Costigan of Norwood, and Daniel Allen of Norwood. James is also survived by his siblings, Harold Barrett of Yarmouth, MA, Kathleen and her husband George Kently of Nova Scotia, Canada, and David Barrett and his wife Mary of Stow, MA. He was predeceased by his loving sister Patricia Bird. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 1:00-4:00pm, followed by a funeral service at 4:00pm at the Gillooly Funeral Home, 126 Walpole Street (Rte. 1A), NORWOOD. Burial with military honors will take place privately at a later date in the Massachusetts National Veterans Cemetery in Bourne, MA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 1877, Merrifield, VA 22116, in memory of James and Marguerite Barrett.
Arrangements under the direction of Gillooly Funeral Home, Norwood, MA.
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