Obituary of Jim McBrayne
McBrayne: James Roy -
James McBrayne passed away peacefully Sunday March 2nd at CKHA Hospital in Chatham.
Reunited with loving wife Betty.
Loving father to Randy (Claudette) McBrayne, James Jr. (Gail) McBrayne, Brent (Lou Anne) McBrayne.
Grandpa to seven grandchildren, Shelly Baker, Kelly Thompson, Dean McBrayne (Lauren), Donald (Ashley) McBrayne, Mitchell (Aya) McBrayne, Dylan (Paulina) McBrayne, Tyler (Ming) McBrayne, ten great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren.
After graduation from high school, Jim graduated from the GM School for Business in Flint Michigan and began work at McBrayne Motors in Thamesville. In 1961, they began Thames Transport, he drove truck and co- managed the company until 1971. He worked for 5 years for Agriculture Canada arranging employment for migrant workers. In 1978 Jim and Betty and friends bought The Outpost Lodge in Thessalon, Ontario, managing that until 1985. At this point they moved home and Jim began his career as village lead hand in Thamesville until his retirement.
Jim was always involved in local politics, being a councilor and Reeve for Thamesville. In 1971 he was elected Warden of Kent County. Jim and Betty loved to travel, with their dear friends the Houstons, and in their camper with a lab dog at their side. Jim was an avid hunter and loved sport shooting, especially cowboy style. He was married to our Mom 8 days short of 70 years. He was a wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather, he will be greatly missed. Our special thanks go to the staff at Chatham Retirement, and Riverview Gardens for the love and exceptional care our parents received.
Jim's wishes were to be cremated. The family invites friends to join them at the Thamesville Royal Canadian Legion Branch 367, 32 Victoria St, Thamesville, ON for a Celebration of Life to honor Jim on Saturday April 19, 2025 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm.
Donations made in memory of James to the Royal Canadian Legion - Thamesville Branch 367, The Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040
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Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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