Obituary of James MacLellan

James "Big Jim" MacLellan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025 at home in Pleasant Valley at the age of 91. In typical Jim fashion, he made sure all seven of his children made it home to say their goodbyes.  

Jim was born to James and Margaret (MacMaster) MacLellan in Centreville, Cape Breton on Feburary 7, 1934. Throughout his life he remained proud of his Cape Breton roots, never passing up the opportunity to listen to fiddle tunes or join in a square set. From a young age, Jim learned the value of hard work working on the farm or in the woods. He shared a close bond with his six siblings and their visits brought him great joy until his final days.

After graduating high school, Jim attended Nova Scotia Teachers College. He taught in Cape Breton for a few years before deciding he wanted to continue his education at St. F.X. To fund his university degree he worked in the uranium mines of Northern Ontario. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Education and his Masters in Education at St. F. X.

Big Jim was a dedicated teacher at St. Andrew Junior High for over 30 years. He had a strong belief in his students, and they knew better than to show up in class without completing their homework. When Jim wasn't teaching he could be found working as an electrician, woodworking or tending his gardens. He somehow found time to serve on several boards as well, including the Gaelic College, Health Board, CACL and CJFX.

Above all else, Jim dedicated himself to his family, always putting their needs first. He was a devoted husband of 61 years to Mary. Along with Mary he is survived by his children Daniel (Sisca) and Nella, John Albert, Maria, James; Charlene (Alan) and Jessica, Mairi, Ryan, Emily; Cathy (Gary) and Sean, Sarah; Debbie; Maria (Alan) and Melissa; Marlene (Dave) and Gerry, Emma, Maria; and Greg (Nancy) and Chiara, Logan; his siblings Elizabeth (Angus); Sister Isabel (CND); Kaye (Kent); Donnie (Paula); and sisters-in-law Monica and  Caddy and great-grandchildren Ben, Sonny and Sammy who will forever cherish their memories of "Pops". 

He is predeceased by his parents, brother Allan and sister Hughena (Roddy) and great-granddaughter Maren.

At the end of his life he was cared for by his wife, Mary, as well as daughters Charlene and Maria, and niece Shelley. His family would also like to extend sincere gratitude to the VON nurses and Jalysa who contributed to his comfort.

Visitation will be held from 3:00-8:00 pm on Thursday, May 1, 2025 in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St. Funeral mass will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 2nd in St. Mary's Church, Maryvale. Burial in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CACL Antigonish.

Every man moves on, but there is no need to grieve. He leaves good things behind.

                                                                                     - Alistair MacLeod