This site is a tribute to Jim, who made the most of life. He was a talented photographer and enjoyed an active career in politics, for which he received his MBE. He was much loved and will always be remembered.

Born in Paddington in 1930, 91 years ago. Jim was the only son of Ann and Jim O’Farrell. His father was a ‘desert rat’ and was away for several years during the war.  His Irish father’s family were actively involved in politics and when he moved to England before Jim was born, continued his involvement in politics becoming secretary of the National Union of Railwayman.  This meant that Jim was raised on political argument from a very young age and gifted him with lifelong good communication skills. 
In 1941 he won a scholarship to the local grammar school and in later life travelled the world.

After matriculation, he worked in metallurgy where he learnt Chemistry. Useful knowledge that helped him develop the photographic skills that became a lifelong interest. 
He then joined the Medical Corps for his National Service.  After National Service, he met his first wife Rachael.  Their children Jim, Sue and Denise were born over the next ten years.

Jim’s passion for photography continued to develop and he decided to move the family to Aldershot centre in 1960 to open a camera shop and a business as a professional photographer.  He won many photographic competitions over the next few years until they asked him to be a judge.  Throughout his life he maintained a keen interest in photography and politics.  He was able to use his photographic skills in his political career and when he retired, he produced calendars using some of his 10,000 photographs from all around the world.
During his time running his shop, he enjoyed being involved in the local business community and joined The Round Table, The Rotary Club and then the Masons.
At the same time, his keen interest in politics led him to be elected as a councillor for several terms.  He really enjoyed the stimulation that politics gave him and decided to engage in it full time.  He went on to enjoy a very successful career working for The Conservative Party. He travelled in a wide geographical area working with MPs & MEP’s, this culminated in his award of an MBE for services to politics. 
He married Iris in 1979 and enjoyed 40 years of happy marriage with her.
After he retired, he set himself up as a consultant and continued working for the Conservative Party. He also combined his love of politics with his photographic skills and was commissioned by the Conservative party to take professional photographs at their conferences.     
Comments from friends and colleagues say things like ‘He was a consummate professional, had thorough knowledge, total dedication, sense of humour…’ and there have been many comments by friends speaking of his kind acts and saying how much he will be missed.  
He enjoyed considerable success and good health during his long life and lived life the way he chose. Rest in Peace.