James M. Donelan Esq.

James Donelan ObituaryVisit the Barrett & Cotter Funeral Home website to view the full obituary.James M. Donelan, Esq. (Ret. Senator), 74, of Post Road, Warwick, passed away with his loving wife and friends by his side on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Kent Hospital in Warwick. He was the devoted husband of Akane Shirai.Born in Warwick, Jim was the son of the late George and Viorine (Connery) Donelan. He was a 1969 graduate of Pilgrim High School and a graduate of University of Rhode Island. He then went on to study law at New England School of Law, Boston, MA .Jim operated his own law practice in the city for many years, and he proudly served for 14 years as a State Senator representing the north end of Warwick. As a State Senator, he wrote and sponsored Rhode Island's Good Driving Statue (RIGL 31-41, 1-7) that allows drivers with a clean record for 3 years to have a new, minor moving violation dismissed.Jim was an avid boater who cherished his trips to Newport and to Block Island for the annual Fourth of July celebration, often accompanied by one of his beloved golden retrievers, KJ or Sushi. Jim and Akane shared a love of travel, especially cruising, and together they explored many parts of the world. Known for his generosity and integrity, Jim was deeply respected by the countless people and organizations he supported throughout his life.In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sister, Carol Paquette of Chino Valley, AZ, and his stepson, Kent Shirai of Warwick.His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Barrett and Cotter Funeral Home, 1328 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI, followed by interment in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. Visitation will take place on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Read The Full ObituaryTo plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.