James T. "Jim" Carnahan

James Thomas “Jim” Carnahan

A good man passed away on Sunday, November 14, 2021 in the comfort of his home. He was loved deeply by all who knew him and was not ashamed to love deeply back.  Our beloved Dad and Paw Paw was called to his heavenly home, and we know that God has a place reserved for him in His special choir.  Jim’s favorite bible verse was Romans 8:28… “all things work for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.”  He strongly believed this and lived by it.

Jim was born in Lake Charles, LA on August 18, 1938 to Earl and Ruby Carnahan.  He never let us forget his birth date.  His childhood years were full of adventure.  He visited his grandparents every day, pulling a little red wagon.  He enjoyed catching and cooking fish on the river most weekends, with his favorite canine companion, “Brownie,” who was always with him.

He had a job he loved, and his second home… the Lake Charles Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Assistant Chief.  He was an interesting man. Full of fairness, kindness, laughter and understanding for his fellow man.  He wore many hats and was known by many names: James, Jim, Jimmy, Husband, Daddy, Paw Paw, Pops…Firefighter, Chief.  His presence here on earth will be greatly missed but his memories will be eternal through the generations that follow him and the many to come.

James is survived by his wife Dot Godeaux Carnahan. His three daughters: Kimberly B. Hillebrandt with husband Andy, Karyn C. Sellars and Hope C. Bogan with husband John; seven grandchildren; seven great grandchildren and one on the way; and his siblings, Doris Lee, Truman Carnahan and Craig Carnahan.

Honorary pallbearers are Truman and Craig Carnahan, Andy, Daniel and Matthew Hillebrandt, Bradi Trahan, Michael Ferris and John Bogan. And all of the brave firefighters of the Lake Charles Fire Department, past and present.

His funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, November 18, 2021 at University Baptist Church, located at 4505 Lake Street.  Pastor John Astling will officiate.  Inurnment will follow in Sallier Cemetery.  Visitation will be at the church on Thursday from 12:00 PM until the start of the service at 2:00 PM.  Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Louisiana Baptist Children's Home.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net