Online Obituaries

James F. Birrell, 85, of South Hadley, passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at home with his family by his side.  He was born on November 24, 1939 in Springfield and was the son of the late Joseph M. and Elizabeth (Doherty) Birrell.  Jim is a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church in South Hadley. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Western New England College. Jim was the CFO for Collins Electric. He was a Navy veteran serving on the USS Marias at Norfolk, Virginia. Jim enjoyed western and war movies, especially John Wayne movies.  Jim had a large history library and collected toy soldiers and built historic dioramas.  James is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Bernice “Bea” I. (Markmann) Birrell; his son, Brian P. Birrell and his significant other, Sara Harrison, of South Hadley and a grandson, Patrick Birrell and his wife, Ashley of Connecticut.  Jim is predeceased by his brother, Joseph Birrell, Jr.  Calling hours are on Sunday, March 9^th from 2 to 5 pm at the Cierpial Memorial Funeral Home, 69 East St. in Chicopee.  A funeral home service will be held on Monday, March 10^th at 11 am.  Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Chicopee.  Memorial contributions may be made to Compassus Hospice, 243 King St., Northampton, MA 01060.