James A. Trulock

James Allen Trulock, 88, passed away peacefully on the same day as his beloved wife of 33 years, Janis (Jan) Elynn Gildner, just hours apart —together in life and together in passing.

James devoted his life to justice, community, and compassion. He worked as a union organizer for Chrysler and later served as a state organizer in Indiana for the historic Farah Strike Boycott and the Grape Boycott. He was a cofounder of Pathway to Recovery, reflecting his lifelong belief in dignity, accountability, and second chances.

James witnessed history firsthand and appeared in the documentary A Ripple of Hope, sharing his experience of attending Robert F. Kennedy’s historic Indianapolis speech on the night of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination—a moment that deeply shaped his values and lifelong activism. Known lovingly within his family as a “card-carrying Socialist,” James lived his convictions with warmth, humor, and unwavering integrity.

He found joy in playing music, reading poetry, and traveling, especially alongside Jan, his partner in art, thought, and adventure.

James was preceded in death by his sons, Robert and Michael Trulock.

He is survived by his son, James P. Trulock; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

James will be remembered as a man who stood firmly for what he believed in, loved deeply, and left the world more just than he found it.