James Lester McClellan

James L. McClellan passed away peacefully at his residence on December 18, 2024, at Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village, Lewisburg, PA. 

Born on July 15, 1933. Jim was the son of the late Willis C. McClellan and Mary Shawley McClellan.  On June 11, 1955, he married his high school sweetheart, Janet D. (Biddle) McClellan, who survives.

After graduating from Bellefonte High School in May 1953, Jim enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in Salzburg, Austria. His military service and time in Salzburg were some of the most formative of his life; he often shared stories with his children and grandchildren that will continue to be passed down. Jim was awarded the National Defense Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Army of Occupation Medal for his service in an occupied territory after World War II.

Upon returning home from Austria in 1955, Jim and Janet married and then settled in Woolrich, PA, eventually moving to Julian, PA, where they would raise their children, Jeff and Jody. He built a successful career at Bell Telephone, promoting to Central Office Technician, where he served until his retirement in 1990.

During his retirement, Jim could frequently be found in his three-bay garage. Two bays housed cars and one was reserved for his workshop, stocked with every mechanic and woodworking tool imaginable. The most important tool in his garage was an ancient refrigerator that still worked well enough to keep the Snickers and Yuengling Lager cold. This was important to Jim, as he was known to hold court in the shop bay, with the door open and lawn chairs available, rain or shine. Jim was a car guy, a trait he shared with his brother, Lew. Over the years, he owned everything from Mercedes-Benz to his sturdy Ford 4-wheel-drive crew cab.

Jim was dedicated to his work with the Masonic Freemasons, earning the rank of Master Mason, and ultimately being elected to serve as Worshipful Master over the Bellefonte Masonic Lodge #268. Jim volunteered with his wife in various roles in the community, from assisting with preparations and smooth running of the Centre County Grange Fair, to supporting events sponsored by the Freemasons or Shriners. Jim was a member of Wingate Faith: A Global Methodist Community, where he contributed in many capacities.

Jim had many colorful sayings, none of which can be shared here, but suffice it to say, his keen wit kept those around him on their toes and a smile on their face. He was a kind, humble, and generous man, who served others quietly and without hesitation. A devoted family man, Jim cherished time with his loved ones, whether traveling, sharing meals, or working on projects in his garage. He took great pride in supporting his children and grandchildren in their accomplishments and milestones. He wasn’t pushy, but when he spoke you listened.

Jim is survived by his wife of 69 years, Janet. He is also survived by his children: Jeffrey T. McClellan (wife, Sharon Frazier) of Coburn, PA and Jody L. Johnson of Mifflinburg, PA. He is also survived by his grandchildren: John F. McClellan (wife, Jana Bürkert) of Berlin, Germany; Ashley E. Johnson of Harrisburg, PA; Avery L. Mowen (husband, Jared) of New Berlin, PA. Jim adored his six great-grandchildren: Madison Hahn, Lily Mowen, Ella Mowen, Cole Mowen, Emma McClellan, Louisa McClellan. He is also survived by extended family members: brother-in-law, Edward Biddle (wife, Vickie) and sister-in-law, Dolores (Biddle) Rishel, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by brothers, Dr. Willis L. McClellan and Lewis D. McClellan, as well as his sister, Jane M. Cartwright. He was also preceded in death by son-in-law, David E. Johnson, and several beloved brother and sister-in-laws.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be announced and held at a later date. In his honor, donations may be made to his church, Wingate Faith: A Global Methodist Community, or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

To share in Jim's online memorial, please visit www.adamofh.com

Arrangements are by Dominick T. Adamo Funerals · Cremations · Monuments, 16 Walnut Street, Mifflinburg.