James E. “Jim” Marshall, age 87, a longtime resident of Winchester, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Gael (Eaton) Marshall, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage.
Born and raised in Elmira, New York, Jim was the son of Lawrence and Regina (Bustin) Marshall. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and at a CYO dance, he met the love of his life, Gael.
Jim and Gael moved to Winchester in the late 1970’s and happily raised three children. Jim worked as a general contractor, earning the trust, respect, and lifelong friendship of many in the community. Outside of his devotion to family, Jim’s true passion was the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer, cook, and gardener, and took great pride in sharing these passions with others—often organizing first-time hunting and fishing experiences for friends throughout Massachusetts. His fondest sporting trips were back home to New York and being able to spend time with his beloved sisters, brother and many nieces and nephews.
Jim had a remarkable gift for bringing people together. He cared deeply for those around him and was always ready to help. He will be remembered as someone who would truly give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He loved to feed people and was constantly perfecting his recipes, especially his many preparations of venison. A longtime member of several social clubs, Jim was always looking for ways to give back. He and his wife ran the annual Veterans’ Dinner at the Winchester Elks, an event that grew in popularity each year and was known for his signature steak and famous chicken noodle soup.
His work as a trustee of the Elks included securing the approval for a cellular tower located at the Winchester Elks—improving service for the surrounding community while financially benefiting the organization.
Jim enjoyed many trips with his family before and during his retirement and one of his favorites was to The Barnacle in Wells, Maine where he always caught a striper.
A loving and compassionate man, Jim was also considered a second father to many. Known for his quick wit, humble demeanor, and fondness for practical jokes, Jim brought laughter wherever he went and will be forever missed.
In addition to his wife, Gael, Jim is lovingly survived by his children Lori J. Smith and her husband Donald of Atkinson, NH, and Lawrence W. Marshall and his wife Michelle of Winchester. He was predeceased by his son Robert (Robby) J. Marshall. Jim was the cherished grandfather of Daniel Smith and his wife Samantha, Brian Smith and his wife Alisa, Emerencienne Marshall, James Marshall, and William Marshall, and the proud great-grandfather of Logan Smith. He is also survived by his sisters Mary Bravo (late husband Robert) of Millport, NY, Catherine Drew (late husband Eugene) of Horseheads, NY, and was predeceased by Ann Patterson (late Frederick), Thomas Marshall, and Patricia Marshall (late Gyles).
Those wishing to honor Jim’s memory may do so by making a donation to the VFW Scholarship Fund, 30 River Street, Winchester, MA 01890, Attn: Commander James Saunders.
Funeral Services were privately held.