Sir James Gildea (23 June 1838 – 6 November 1920) was a British Army Militia officer and philanthropist who founded the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association.

In 1885, he founded the Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association, which became the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association in 1919, and served as its chairman and treasurer until his death.

From 1890 to 1895 he was organising secretary of Queen Victoria's Jubilee Institute for Nurses.

He founded the Royal Homes for Officers' Widows and Daughters at Wimbledon in 1899 and was also at one time treasurer of the St. John Ambulance Association.

From 1890 to 1898, Gildea commanded the 6th (Militia) Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment.