James Scott MacNeil

James “Jim” Scott MacNeil passed away surrounded by love and music on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the age of 59 years.

Jim was born in New Waterford, Nova Scotia on June 21, 1966, to Adelaide and James MacNeil. He spent most of his childhood in Lethbridge, Alberta, and his teenage years in Prince George, British Columbia, forging lifelong friendships. Jim’s childhood home was often filled with guests, entertainment, music and laughter. He carried this spirit with him, and was always the life of the party.

In 1983 Jim’s family moved to Calgary, Alberta, and during his senior year of high school at Father Lacombe he met Sue, who would become his wife and mother to his two children. The proudest days of his life were the days his daughter, Kate, and son, Jacob, were born.

Jim was an all-around athlete. He supported the Calgary Stampeders, and played football with the “Gringos” on weekends. Jim spent many of his days at the rink coaching and supporting his son, Jacob, in hockey. During the off season, watching baseball and a few rounds of golf were common. Every summer Jim could be found encouraging the kids to get up on water-skis or the knee board and thrilling them with tube rides out on the lake.

Jimmy had a great love of music, and eagerly shared his passion with all those around him. Whether it be guitar, singing, or the radio cranked up loud, Jim always had a tune in his soul. His favourite songs became the soundtrack to his life, and anyone who loved him has a song that they associate with his memory.

Jim is survived by his children, Kate (Ryan) and Jacob MacNeil; his grandson, Benjamin Welsh; his parents Adelaide and James MacNeil; his sisters Alanna (Brian) deHaan and Elizabeth (Michel) Durocher; nephews Alex, Sam, and Aiden; and nieces Amanda, Rebecca, Jesse, and Emily.

Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral (219 - 18 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta) on May 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., with a lunch and gathering of family and friends to follow.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the ICU staff at the Rockyview General Hospital.

Issues of mental health and addiction became very important to Jim. In honour of his memory and for those who continue to battle, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Calgary Dream Centre.