James Joseph 'JJ' MacNeil

Born in Johnstown on October 12, 1930 to parents Roderick and Cecilia (Gillis) MacNeil, JJ or Jim as he was also known was raised in Soldiers Cove, Richmond County. It was during his childhood and on his family homestead that he developed his work ethic and shaped the foundation of his character.

Jim married Mary G. MacDonald of Boisdale and they settled in Sydney Forks. Together they raised three children, son Liam (Susan), Hinton, Alberta; daughters, Melissa, Dutch Brook and Angela, Sydney Forks. Also surviving Jim are his sisters, Sadie (Tom) Brady, Burlington, Ontario; Helen (Jack) Bresnehan, Brantford, Ontario; Marie (Furzer) Elliot, Montreal, Quebec; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and members of the MacLean, MacDonald and MacNeil families. Jim’s lifelong friends were especially loyal, particularly Joseph Nugent.

Educated at St. Peter’s High School, Jim acquired a passion for learning which would follow him through life. His degrees in science and education were earned at St. FX and Loyola Universities. He studied engineering at the NS Institute of Technology (NSIT). He was also part of the original staff of the Eastern Institute of Technology, which now exists as Cape Breton University. While teaching in the math department at the former University College of Cape Breton, Jim co-founded the Alternate Energy Society, with a vision of developing wind energy and maintained that one day windmills would be seen on the grounds of the college. Jim was steadfast in his faith and commitment to his family. This extended into his volunteering for most any job, regardless of size.

Jim had a love of music which enriched his life and he spent many years as a member of the Cape Breton Fiddlers Association, the Cape Breton Gaelic Choir and the Golden Tones. In his retirement years, Jim re-engaged with the Gaelic Language and became a fluent speaker. His particular interest during this time was in the Gaelic songs of Richmond County.

Besides his parents, Jim was predeceased by brothers Martin and Edward MacNeil, sister Jen MacLean, and by nephews MR MacLean, Alvin MacNeil and Jamie Bresnehan.

Visitation for the late Mr. MacNeil will take place on Friday, February 28, 2014 from 6-9 pm at T.W.Curry Parkview Chapel. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 11 am in Our Lady of Fatima Church with Rev. Duaine Devereaux officiating. A family burial will take place at a later date.

Donations may be made to CBU Alumni Association or the Youth Gaelic Immersion Program of the Colaisde Na Gaidhlig, (CB Gaelic College) or a charity of choice.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.twcurry.com