James A. Desmarais, Sr.

James A. Desmarais, Sr., 76, a longtime Dracut resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Michelle M. (Bisson) Desmarais, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage.

Born in Lowell on May 28, 1950, he was the son of the late Beatrice A. (Charette-McCarthy) and Edmond H. Desmarais. He was raised in Dracut and graduated from Dracut High School in 1968. Prior to retirement, he owned and operated JAD Associates, where he worked as a self-employed manufacture’s representative.

James was an avid boater and Patriots fan. Above all else, his wife and family were his pride and joy. Never missing an opportunity to support, celebrate, and remind them how deeply they were loved, especially when it came to his grandchildren.

He was dedicated to and had a deep love for the town he lived in, serving on the Board of Health and the Dracut Housing Committee. He was also a proud member of the Republican Party. A passionate advocate for protecting local waterways, James founded the Long Pond Clean Waters Committee and served as its President for more than 20 years, working hard to preserve and protect Long Pond for future generations.

In addition to his wife Michelle, James is survived by his two children, James A. Desmarais, Jr. and his wife, Roxanne, and Lisa Milinazzo and her partner, David Cremin, all of Dracut; his six grandchildren, Andrew Desmarais and his fiancée, Haley Flynn, Anthony Milinazzo, Angelina Milinazzo, Calvin Desmarais, Brock Desmarais, and Vincent Milinazzo; as well as many other extended family and friends.

He was the brother of the late Judith Erekson and brother-in-law of the late Paul and Dennis Bisson.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend James’ Life Celebration on Friday, June 19, 2026 from 9 until 11 AM at the McKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell. His funeral service will be celebrated immediately following at 11 AM in the funeral home. Burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Long Pond Clean Waters Committee, c/o Richard Lannan, 7D Taggart Drive, Nashua, NH 03060.