John Francis "Jackie" MacLellan

MacLellan, John Francis "Jackie", 87 of James River, Antigonish County passed away peacefully, surrounded by family in St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, July 8, 2012. Born in Antigonish he was a son of the late Joseph and Margaret (MacDonald) MacLellan. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sophie Ann, his four daughters, Margaret Ann Gilfoy (Hal), Mary MacDougall (Dan), both of North Grant, Marilyn Power, Dartmouth, and Bernice, Halifax. He is also survived by two sisters, Margaret "Peggy" Curley, Welland ON and Janet (Dan) Farrell, Antigonish and twelve grandchildren, Colin, Stephen, David, Kathryn, Bradley (Emily), Jan (Matt), John Anthony, Grace, Christopher, Sarah, Allan, and Jerri Marie, and one great-grandchild, Liam. He was predeceased by brothers Dougald, and Lewis, sisters Millie (Joseph) and Lillian (John W) and brothers Alexander and Donald in infancy. In his early years Jackie did farming, forestry and worked for the Department of Highways. He was the sole employee for the Municipality of Antigonish in operating the James River Landfill Site from its opening in 1971 to his retirement in 1989. In retirement he enjoyed working on his woodlot and was especially passionate about his vegetable garden, which brought him many years of pleasure and peace. His lawn became a work of art alongside the beautiful flower beds that he and Sophie created together. Both Jackie and Sophie were devoted to each other, lived their lives with deep faith, and were an incredible inspiration to their family. Papa Jackie’s greatest joy was spending time with all of his grandchildren, walking the property and having family time together. He was so interested in what they were doing and always kept up to date on each of their lives, they equally loved visiting and spending time with their Papa. Visitation 2-4 and 7-9 pm Tuesday July 10, in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish. Funeral Mass 10:30 am Wednesday in St. Joseph’s Church, St Joseph’s. Burial in the parish cemetery. Donations to The Antigonish C.A.R.E Van Society or The Antigonish and Area Homemakers.