James Joseph Farley

Jim was born in New York, New York on November 11, 1944 to the late Thomas and Ellen Farley. He was a 1962 graduate of St. John's Prep in Queens, New York. He then completed his undergraduate studies at Villanova University (Class of 1966) and received his J.D. from Brooklyn Law (Class of 1969). While in law school, he met the love of his life, Lorraine, whom he married in 1971. Upon graduation, Jim was recruited by the Federal Bureau of Investigation where he proudly served as a Special Agent for seven years. Soon after accepting a transfer to Phoenix, Jim left the FBI in 1976 to embark on what would become a very successful law career right until his retirement in 2010. Jim specialized in securities litigation and truly thrived in the courtroom. He enjoyed a diverse and full career that included serving as Mayor of Gilbert, Arizona, land development, and ownership in various business ventures. He was well-respected in the community and could always be counted on to help or lend counsel when someone was in need. A cowboy at heart, he loved country music, horses, and trail riding with his mules. He had a "need for speed" which he passionately pursued through either his love of fast cars (Porsche being his favorite) or mule racing. During retirement, Jim and Lorraine were so fortunate to enjoy several wonderful summers on Vancouver Island, BC, where Jim pursued another passion - - salmon fishing on his boat, "Azscape". He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Thomas; and his sister, Jeanine. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Lorraine, and three children, Kristin (Tony) Winckowski, Lisa (Mickael) Chevalier, and James (Andrea) Farley II, as well as his brother, John Farley. He was also the proud grandfather of Cali, Blake, Elizabeth, James III, and Tyler. Services will be held on Monday, May 14th at 10:00 am at Falconer Funeral Home in Gilbert, Arizona. The family would like to thank the staff at Emerald Groves Central and Hospice of The Valley for providing such loving care for him in his final days.