Alexander J. Carlin

Alexander James Carlin
September 7, 1937 – December 9, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for his extraordinary life, we announce the passing of Alexander James Carlin, who entered eternal rest on December 9, 2025. Born on September 7, 1937, Alexander lived 88 years guided by love, faith, and unwavering devotion to his family and to the Lord.

Alexander was the beloved husband of Madelyn “Bonnie” Turbitt Carlin, with whom he shared 65 years of steadfast love and partnership. Together, they built a family rooted in faith, resilience, and deep affection.

He was the cherished father of Alex Carlin (Faith), Jack Carlin (Tricia), the late Mark Carlin, Timmy Carlin (the late Liz), and Kathy Carlin Staab (Billy). His joy multiplied through his grandchildren—Nicole Carlin, Stephanie Carlin, Andrew Carlin, Brittany Carlin, Megan Weiss, John Carlin, Zoey Weiss, Shannon Carlin Giandeletti, Elizabeth Carlin, Erin Carlin, Ryan Carlin, Gabrielle Weiss, and Liam Carlin—and through 11 great-grandchildren, with one more blessing on the way.

Alexander was a proud Irishman who lived in Fishtown for many years. His faith was the compass that guided his entire life. He was a shining example of what it means to be a father, a husband, and a faithful servant of the Lord.

Alexander met every person with kindness and lived with a powerful yet gentle spirit. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and built a foundation of strength and love that will sustain them for generations. He guided, mentored, encouraged, and nurtured with a steady hand. He taught his children, and all who knew him, to approach life with a “never give up” attitude.

He lived selflessly, placing others before himself, loving his neighbor, and embodying the fruits of the Spirit in all he did. His service in the United States Marine Corps reflected his deep patriotism, just as his daily life reflected his deep faith.

Today, we celebrate a remarkable man whose legacy is rooted in love, faith, loyalty, and devotion. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, we find comfort in knowing his soul lives on with the Lord. After our tears are wiped away, we will honor him by living with joy, just as he always encouraged, and by continuing to share the love of the gospel and the love he so freely offered to others. May he rest in God’s eternal peace.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing and funeral Friday December 12, 2025 from 9:45-10:45am in Holy Name of Jesus Church 701 Gaul Street (at Berks) Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Fishtown), followed by his funeral mass at 11am. Interment with Military Honors will be private and at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at the address listed below. 

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