James "Jim" A. Carlan

James "Jim" Carlan, born May 11, 1939, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, at the age of 87, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Jim never sought to be the center of attention, but his demeanor was such that people naturally gravitated toward him. He was a great listener who genuinely focused on understanding people before offering his thoughts. He loved history, stayed incredibly sharp throughout his life, and was always the person family and friends turned to for sound advice. It was not uncommon for loved ones to call Jim seeking guidance, and many later realized that some of the most important decisions of their lives had begun with one of those conversations.

Jim graduated from Suffolk University with an accounting degree and spent over three decades with the Government Accountability Office (GAO). A highlight of his distinguished career came in 1981, when he completed the Senior Executive Fellows Program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. His sharp analytical mind and professional expertise served him well far beyond his career, directly shaping the wisdom and guidance he offered his community.

Nowhere was his impact felt more than on the soccer pitch. Jim’s 40-year journey with the sport was extraordinary. He knew absolutely nothing about the game when he started, but he cared deeply about youth development. He studied the sport inside and out, immersed himself in coaching, and eventually rose to become the Chief Operating Officer of the Soccer Association of Columbia (SAC). He was a primary architect in building and establishing the fields at Covenant Park, dedicating countless hours over his career creating opportunities for young athletes and their families.

Outside of work, Jim was a passionate sports fan, closely following both Boston and DC teams. He was an avid hockey and baseball fan, and some of his happiest moments were spent attending games with his family and friends.

Above all else, Jim’s family was his entire world. He was blessed with a lifetime of love, sharing his life with two remarkable women—both named Pauline. He spent his life reveling in the achievements of his children and grandchildren, finding genuine joy in their successes, milestones, and happiness.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pauline; his four daughters, Debi, Laura, Lynda, and Judy; his stepdaughter, Margie; his sister, Patricia; eleven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Pauline; his beloved son, James "Jimmy" Carlan III; his granddaughter, Brittany Carlan; his parents; and his siblings, Florence ("Sis") and Ralph ("Bud").

Jim's legacy lives on not only through his family, but also through the thousands of young people, coaches, parents, and friends whose lives he touched through mentorship, service, soccer, friendship, and faith. Whether offering thoughtful advice, cheering from the sidelines, or quietly helping someone find their way, Jim made people feel heard, valued, and supported.

Memorial & Donation Information

A funeral service celebrating Jim’s life and legacy will be held on Friday, June 26, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Covenant Church. Refreshments will be provided immediately following the service, hosted by SAC at the Jim Carlan Clubhouse, located adjacent to the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: The Soccer Association of Columbia (SAC) or Covenant Church.