Elijah Huling Jr., a dedicated public servant, legal pioneer, and compassionate community leader, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, after battling complications from cancer. He was 78 years old.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Jennie Lee Mayo and Elijah Huling Sr., Elijah moved to Baldwinsville, NY in 1980, where he built a life rooted in service, integrity, and advocacy. He married Marion Huling, with whom he raised three children—Elijah III, Joshua, and Jennie. Elijah is survived by his loving wife Juanita, his three children, daughter-in-law Laura, and the joy of his life: grandchildren Elijah IV, Carter, and James.

Elijah worked tirelessly to support his children, but was equally as committed to justice and his community. For over 35 years, he served as Baldwinsville's Village Justice, earning admiration for his integrity, fairness, and dedication to the rule of law. Beyond the courtroom, he was a tireless advocate for legal education. Professor Huling was a beloved educator, serving as a visiting professor at Syracuse University College of Law for 25 years. He was a lecturer for the NYS Bar Association, an advisor for newly elected judges across the state and a fixture in Baldwinsville schools to inspire students and share his journey in law.

A proud alumnus of Hobart College and Cornell Law School, Elijah served as a trial lawyer for 38 years. His reputation extended far beyond Baldwinsville, as he was admitted to argue cases in all New York State courts, Federal District Court, and the U.S. Supreme Court. He founded two law firms, the Huling Law Office and Dadow & Huling, in Baldwinsville. He provided legal aid for local churches and to those in need.

Elijah's dedication to social justice earned him numerous honors, including the Jaycee Distinguished Service Award, and leadership roles with P.E.A.C.E., WCNY, United Way, and the Urban League of Onondaga County.

His service to others extended into the military. A U.S. Army veteran, he served as an airborne Special Forces paratrooper, marksman and squad leader.

And his desire for service led him to actively participate in his community. Elijah was a volunteer Baldwinsville firefighter, a dedicated member of Baldwinsville United Methodist Church—serving as chairman of the Staff Parish Relations Committee, choir member, and church council member. He also participated with the Boy Scouts, Rotary Club, and Optimist Club.

True to his character, Elijah requested no formal services. He was always slow to share his own burdens but quick to shoulder the burdens of others. In lieu of a service, the family invites donations in his honor to the American Diabetes Association (https://diabetes.org/) and the Baldwinsville Community Scholarship Foundation (https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/161075625). Both are causes he passionately believed in.

Elijah Huling Jr. will be remembered for his discipline, his commitment to justice and equality; and his love of his God, family and community. He leaves a legacy of dignity, kindness, and service that will be continued through those whose lives he has touched.