It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Bernard MacNeil “JB”, 58, of Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, who passed away peacefully at home on June 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Glace Bay, James was the beloved son of the late Walter MacNeil and Margaret "Polly" MacNeil (MacLeod). At the young age of sixteen, James left Glace Bay and began a new chapter in Toronto, Ontario, where he spent over twenty years building a life and making many memories. During his time in Toronto, he became a devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays — If you know, you know. James was employed at the Prince of Wales Theatre in Toronto then at Home Hardware Distribution in Debert before returning home to Glace Bay, where he was happiest. During a vacation home to Glace Bay James met the love of his life, Michelle. Together, they shared many years filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. James had a great sense of humour and was known for his kindness, generosity, and his appreciation for a quiet and simple life.

James had a special place in his heart for all animals, especially his fur babies Daisy, B, Sugar and the Blue Jay's he fed daily. He also had a passion for harness racing.

James will be deeply missed by his loving partner Michelle Strong; his brother Tony (Linda) MacNeil; sister Linda (Kirk) O’Brien; and sister-in-law Sharon MacNeil, mother-in-law Valerie Strong; sisters-in-law Cathy (Greg), Dawn (Darren), and Cindy; brothers-in-law Robbie (Michelle), Ron (Colleen), Michael, and Gary; as well as several cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and best buddies Trevor MacNeil and Markus Ellsworth.

Besides his parents, James was predeceased by his brothers Allie (Marion); Wayne (Karen); and Billy; sisters Esther (Sheldon) Hiscock; Catherine (Don) Cutler, Shirley Shortliffe , father-in-law Gary "Doc" Strong; and a child in infancy. On behalf of JB, we would like to extend a heartfelt thankyou to everyone who provided care, compassion, and support during this time.

A very special thank you to Dr. Melanie Adams and Dr. Juris Lazovskis, who both went above and beyond with their kindness, dedication, and care. We are also deeply grateful to Dr. Brake, Dr. Giorno and his palliative care team, including Nurse Lynda Murphy, and Dr. Burns and Dr. Fitzgerald, VON, EHS, Joanne’s Blood Collection, and Medigas.

To our families, thank you for your endless love, strength, and support throughout this time. And a special thankyou to the Ellsworth family for all of their kindness and help over the years — it has meant more than words can express.

Cremation has taken place under the care of Forest Haven Memorial Gardens. At James’ request, there will be no service. A burial will take place at a later date.