NORTH DIGHTON-James P. Eagleson, 100, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of 78 years to Marilyn J. (Griffin) Eagleson.

James was born in Flemington, NJ and was the son of the late William Eagleson and Alice (Longworth) Eagleson.

James served his country honorably in the US Navy during World War II. He served on the USS Vincennes for 3 years and 22 days as a Machinist's Mate 2nd Class.

He was employed for over 40 years as a farrier and blacksmith at tracks all across New England including: Suffolk Downs, Scarborough Downs, Rockingham Park, Lincoln Downs, Narraganset Park, and even travelled down to a track in South Carolina.

He took immense pride in his work, and he joyfully shared his skills with his three sons, creating a lasting family tradition. His love of horses led him to attend the Kentucky Derby fifteen times.

James was a man with endless talents, whether it was metal work, fabrication, or building his family home of 50 years in Dighton, James could do it all. In his leisure time, he enjoyed wintering in Florida with his wife and trips to Maine and New Hampshire. He loved to listen to music. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his children, Donna Antinarella and her husband Robert, Dale Eagleson and William Eagleson, Scott Eagleson and his companion Jennifer Allen and; six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He had a special bond with his granddaughter Alyssa, who fondly remembers playing kitchen, countless Friday night dinners, and listening to stories from his life.

James was preceded in death by his siblings.

"I don't mind getting older, because I know many people who didn't get the chance to"

Private arrangements are entrusted to the Foley-Cook New Day Funeral Home, Attleboro.

Please consider a contribution in Mr. Eagleson's memory to Battleship Cove of Fall River, to help preserve the legacy and sacrifice of America's military. You may mail a check to: Battleship Cove, 5 Water St, Fall River, MA 02721.  Please make checks out to USS Massachusetts Memorial Committee, Inc. or donate online at https://www.battleshipcove.org/donate