Hello Lynn,
Apologies if I state the obvious.
Any direct line family member must be traced if possible back through the census records from just before death - in your case from the 1871 one back to the 1841 at 10 yearly intervals.
I note on the government website at
www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk that there is a 3 page will for 'your' Thomas. May refer to some siblings? Cost £5.00 using a 'cart' system. I did not look to see if James left a will.
CARRICK THOMAS 01/04/1874 COOPER, RESIDING AT # 129 HIGH STREET, DUMBARTON, WINDOW MRS ELIZABETH CAMPBELL OR CARRICK DUMBARTON SHERIFF COURT SC65/34/1
Shall go and look for other siblings. A polite reminder also that the info on the death entry is only as good as the person who supplied its knowledge. If it wa shis wife or a sibling it should be reasonably reliable.
Regards, Steve
