James “Jim” MacLean, 84, formerly of Atkinson, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on the morning of October 14, 2026, at his home in Vero Beach, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 22, 1942, he was the son of William James MacLean and Helen (Hill) Greenlaw. He was the beloved husband of Nancy A. MacLean, with whom he had recently celebrated 64 years of marriage.

Jim was a passionate, hardworking, and a talented craftsman and builder. He began learning his trade as a teenager and went on to establish himself as a successful home builder. His talents extended far beyond his profession, and his zest for life was reflected in the many interests, adventures, and friendships he enjoyed throughout the years.

Jim grew up in Methuen, Massachusetts, where he developed a love of horses at an early age. As a teenager, he grew up among the farmers and horse trainers, who were his neighbors. He was relied upon as a young exercise groom where he exercised the horses in preparation for the Rockingham Park horse races. In his adult years, he enjoyed old movies and Westerns, singing karaoke, and sharing stories of his childhood, recalling the wonderful neighbors, friends, and experiences that helped shape his life. He had a lifelong love of animals, especially his beloved dogs. Jim also thoroughly enjoyed playing golf and proudly celebrated the memorable achievement of a hole-in-one. Although he was not a fisherman by nature, he did once reel in an extraordinary catch—a 204-pound marlin—while vacationing in Hawaii.

In retirement, Jim discovered a special passion for creating miniature dollhouses. Inspired by photographs of beautiful estate homes, he meticulously recreated them in miniature, showcasing his exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail. Neighbors and passersby could often find themselves invited into his garage, where Jim would proudly unveil his latest masterpiece and happily share the story behind it. He was never shy about striking up a conversation with a stranger. To Jim, a chance encounter was simply an opportunity to make a new friend.

Throughout his life, Jim was often approached by strangers who remarked on his resemblance to actor Mickey Rooney. These encounters never failed to bring an immediate smile to his face. He graciously embraced the familiar comparison, which had become a delightful and recurring part of his life.

Proud of his Scottish ancestry, Jim had the opportunity to visit his family’s ancestral homeland when his daughter took him to MacLean Castle on the Isle of Mull. During this memorable trip, he met Sir Lachlan MacLean, the 28th Chieftain of the MacLean Clan. While in Scotland, Jim learned that those named “Jimmy” were considered friends. He was delighted to discover that his name had already earned him that distinction—a fitting sentiment for a man who spent his life building connections through his warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others.

He will be lovingly remembered for his infectious smile, hearty laughter, and animated storytelling. Whether sharing a favorite memory, revealing a handcrafted masterpiece, or striking up a conversation with someone he had just met, Jim had a special way of connecting with anyone he met. His spirit and unique zest for conversation left a lasting impression on all those who knew him.

Jim was predeceased by both his parents, and his brothers Timothy MacLean and William “Billy” MacLean.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 64 years, Nancy A. MacLean; his son, Mark James MacLean, his daughter, Janet MacLean Jansen, his daughter, Sandra (MacLean) Erickson; his sisters, Susan (MacLean) Simone and Linda MacLean, and his brother, Brett Greenlaw. He is also survived by six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Jim’s legacy lives on in the homes he built, the beautiful creations he crafted, the stories he shared, and the countless friendships he formed along the way. Above all, he will be remembered for his animated spirit, his love of animals, his gift for storytelling, and his ability to make others feel like they’ve known each other for years, wherever he went. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the known and loved him.

A memorial service for Jim will be held in Vero Beach, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your local animal shelter(s) or the MSPCA in Jim’s memory.