It is with sadness we announce James Michael Donnelly (Jim) died on July 10, 2022. Born February 4, 1930, he was surrounded in life by his 10 children, their spouses, 19 grandchildren, his four great grandchildren, and his partners in life, wife Mary Elizabeth (Watson) Donnelly (deceased 2012) and Pat Baker.
Jim did not have to look far to find the two loves of his life. As a teen, he met Mary, his wife of 56 years, at the neighbouring cottage on Sunset Beach, Huron County. In 2018, he was blessed to find love again with Pat – his neighbour on St. George’s Crescent, Goderich.
Born in Chepstow, Ontario to Frank and Ina (Kehoe) Donnelly, he moved to Goderich as a young child with his brother Richard (Dick) Donnelly and sister Moyra Campion. He was a proud, lifelong resident of Goderich.
Jim was the northern star for his children, grandchildren and community. Everything he did, he did for others. He taught us how to live our lives. He led by example. He had a strong moral compass. He lived his life with a passion for justice, a love of family and a sense of humour. His booming laugh was infectious, memorable, heartwarming, and we all tried to earn one from him. Committed to keeping his family connected with two children living in western Canada, he started writing a weekly family newsletter in 1994. Dubbed the “Family Bulletin”, it was a highly sought-after honour to headline the newsletter. As was his right as editor, you never quite knew what was truth or fiction. Through the newsletter, he documented our accomplishments, milestones, sorrows and provided his insights into matters of everyday life. His signature signoff was “Take Care of Each Other, Love Dear Old Dad” and later, “Take Care of Each Other, Love Gramp”.
He continued documenting matters of family and community as author of seven books, including a history of Huron County, his career in law and other family chronicles, the last finalized the week he died.
In his professional life, he was a fierce defence lawyer whose practice focused on protecting the rights of the “little guy”. His cross-examination skills were legendary. He loved juries and ended each jury address with the immortal words of Irish orator Robert Emmet, “I have done”. As a Justice of the Superior Court of Ontario for 20 years, he was an empathetic, analytical and fair jurist. On his retirement from the Court, he returned to a different type of public service. After a fifty-year hiatus, he returned to municipal politics serving in various capacities for the Town of Goderich and County of Huron from 2010 to 2022. Additionally, he served as Vice-Chair of the Ontario Racing Commission and as Alternate Chair of the Ontario Review Board.
Jim’s passion for baseball was evident at an early age; he played regularly as a teen and coached six of his ten children. He and his best friend Jack Evans understood the power of sport. Together they developed and coached a baseball team called The Canada Company, competing in the Goderich Industrial Fastball League from 1976 to 1985. Last week at The Canada Company reunion, the alumni gathered to reminisce and celebrate Jim and Jack’s continuing influence on their lives.
Jim and Mary were avid horse racing enthusiasts, a venture that connected them with Canadian Harness Horse Hall of Fame driver Ron Feagan, the King of the Sulky. Jim also loved golf, having taught many of his grandchildren to play. Jim and Pat Baker enjoyed playing golf at local courses and in Florida.
Dad, you “have done”. We love you and, rest assured, we will take care of each other.
Our entire family’s heartfelt thanks to Dr. Stan Spacek for his stewardship, friendship and professionalism.
Visitation Wednesday, July 13 from 3 – 7 p.m. on the back lawn of the Donnelly family home, 103 St. George’s Crescent, Goderich. Casual attire.
Eulogy and Funeral Mass on Thursday, July 14 commencing at 10:45 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Goderich. Masks required.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Community Living-Central Huron.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Jim and Gene baynham
We are so sorry to not have known about Jim’s passing until today, August 21,2022. Jimmy and I really enjoyed the times we have spent with Jim and Mary and after Mary’s passing the odd lunch time visit. Our deepest sympathy is extended to all.
Colleen Maguire
James Donnelly was a giant of a man. I have always had the highest respect for him. He accomplished so much in life, gave back to the community is so many ways and was revered by all. He will be missed in so many ways. I had the honour of photographing him and his father and always treasured my chats with him. Deepest sympathy to the entire family and his many friends.
David and Diane Snyder
There are not enough fitting words to describe Jim.He was there rising to every need in which he could help. His wisdom and love for and in the community in which he lived continues on and into the future because of the service he gave to all of us who live in Goderich as he served on Council with genuine love and in so doing guided with care and wisdom all of us through difficult times . He can’t be replaced, but he will live on in all our hearts. Rest now Jim your work here is finished. Rest in Peace. God bless you.
Shelagh Sully
A life well lived. Both Jim and Mary were leading examples of how to surround themselves in family and community.
My sincere condolences to the family. May you share many happy memories together.
Shelagh Sully
Carolanne Doig
Sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a long time friend of my father and many a story was enjoyed as the two sat and chatted about life, sport, golf, and more. Jim was so kind to stop in to Dad’s 90th birthday a few years ago where the two were laughing and joking like kids. Perhaps the two are reminiscing once again. Regardless of our fathers’ ages or ours it is always sad to lose a dad, grandpa, and good friend. My sincere sympathy to you all – remember the good times!
Joe and Maureen Donohue
Jim was a sterling example of a parent, a citizen and a judge.
May he Rest In Peace.
Sincerely
Joe and Maureen Donohue- Sarnia
Margaret June Hill
I am so truly saddened by Dear Jim’s passing! Growing up in our sleepy Town of Goderich with the Donnelly was such a memorable experience for all of our family! We all had so much fun together in our “roaring twenties”.!His love for baseball gave us all so much fun with the Canada Company! We loved routing for this team! Between tennis and baseball, the summers were filled with so much fun!
His love for the game and bridge with his lovely wife, Mary has held a true meaning of competing spirit! In my mothers’s final ye as rs, he would gladly come to our house to participate in bridge which meant so much to my dear mother!
I wish Jim the very best in his final flight to be with dear Mary in our heavens above! My mother and father and Claudia will be waiting with open arms! Our family would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all of the Donnellys!
Susan LaFontaine
My deepest condolences to the Donnelly family. I am a judicial secretary at the Windsor courthouse and had the pleasure of working with Justice Donnelly prior to his retirement whenever he would make his way to Windsor to preside over a trial here. I have the fondest memories of a kind, gentle man who I very much enjoyed chatting with. Again, my deepest condolences.
Linda Pavlinec
My family extends our deepest sympathy to the entire Donnelly family in the loss of your dad, grandpa and great grandpa. I’ve been away from the area for a long time now but learned so much more about him from the beautifully written obituary. He was truly an icon.
Joyce Robinson
Time has ticked by but still
Only the BEST of Memories!
Joyce Greer, Robinson
Teresa Patterson
Our deepest condolences on the passing of your Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather. I can’t recall a moment I didn’t see him with a smile on his face, or a moment to say “hello”. May your hearts heal quickly.
Sam Lazarevich and Teresa Patterson
Karla Hogan
My condolences and prayers to all of the Donnelly family. May your many lovely memories help you find peace at this sad time.
Dave Frayne
I had the privilege of being on Huron County Council with Jim.
He did not make many statements, but when he did, everyone listened.
R.I.P. Job well done
Jim Donnelly
Jim was a very accomplished jurist ,politician and most importantly a great Patriarch of the Donnelly’s of Goderich. His example was inspirational to all including the other Donnelly family members such as those of us who hailed from Peterborough. Jim was the last of a generation and will be missed by us all.
Bill and Jo-Anne Wraith
To all of the Donnelly Family, we were so sorry to hear about your Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. Growing up I spent a lot of time at the house, and cottage. I hold those memories as some of the best times ever! Jim was a great man, always fair and always had time to talk or play. He will be missed by many, but the memories you all have, will forever be in your heart! Take care.
Elaine Ducharme
Our sincere condolences to the entire Donnelly family.
George and Elaine Ducharme
Beverley Whetstone
Jim was a friend to everybody, young or old, rich or poor. Goderich will miss him.
Jacqui Denomme
I mostly knew Judge Donnelly by the back of his head at church as a young child and adult sitting several pews back! Along with Mrs. Donnelly and the row of beautiful children they were a stable fixture in church, school and the town in general. How wonderful to read this gorgeous tribute and discover that there was SO much more to this much-loved man than meets the eye! My condolences to all of his family and friends and the citizens of the Town of which he was such an integral pillar.
Norm Leddy
Our condolences to the family.
Norm & Sandra Leddy
TODD DELMAGE
Sincere sympathy to the entire Donnelly family. I had the pleasure of meeting Jim years ago when i was the golf pro at Woodlands Golf Club. I can remember lots of great stories with his good buddy Vic. The two of them always made me laugh . Jim was a true gentleman and definitely one of a kind and will be dearly missed by all!
Jim Bissett
Sadden to hear the passing of Jim , enjoyed my Saturday morning chats at the store as he made his way through, as well was many years at the diamonds !
He will be missed by so many , my condolences to the family .
Jim Bissett and Family
Maureen McGahey
We offer our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Jim.
What a wonderful obituary— captured the spirit of Jim in his many roles.
How wonderful that he penned a “ family newsletter” to help keep the tribe connected.
Blessings to you all in your journey of loss .
Sincerely,
Maureen& David McGahey( Bauer) and family
Tami Moscoe
Teresa, I am so sorry for your loss. Sending my condolences and a big hug.
Eric Carman
My very deepest condolences to the Donnelly family, I knew the family during my professional career while living in Goderich until my retirement (1971-1992) Jim amongst other local professionals helped me build up a successful business as a professional photographer, I took a family photograph for many a yearbthat Jim & Mary used for there Christmas Card. Jim also used me for many years as his official photographer in his Law Firm. Also escorted his Father
(Frank) on many occasion, I remember once driving Frank to the Funeral of his partner (Mr Murphy) Father, we ended up eating lunch in the parking lot “Kentucky Fried Chicken” and having a great chit- chat.
(Jim and I were the same age).
We now live in Orillia and I always wanted to re-visit Goderich and visit Jim, RIP
Cecelia Denomme
Dear Donnelly family – Jim’s love for each of you – will always be in your hearts.
He will be missed and always remembered – as a special part of our community.
With sympathy – Cecelia and Don Denomme
Carole Ann Kinkead
My prayers for the family. It was an honor to have Jim as a friend and neighbor. RIP
Rosemary Corriveau Landriault
Sincere sympathy to the entire Donnelly family. Jim will be missed by all who knew him.
It’s always too soon to say, Goodbye.
Rowland Howe
My condolences to the Donnelly family. Jim was a special guy who I had the greatest respect for.
In recent years on council, he had made The Port of Goderich something of a focus, probably because he watched the activity everyday from his home on the hill.
While Jim and I may not have always agreed he held me accountable and pushed me to do better in all my endeavors.
Like many, I think I am probably a better person for having known Jim.
Thomas & Linda Kern
Our sincere condolences to the entire Donnelly family.
We vividly remember Jim’s infectious laughs. He will be greatly missed by us.
God’s blessings to you all.
Thomas & Linda Kern
Paul Parsons
I am a lifelong friend of the Donnelly family, having just lived around the corner.
Jim and I would reminisce, from time to time, whether at St. Georges Cres., or out at the lake, about life’s simple things, like sailing.
I never needed Jim as a lawyer, and that’s a good thing, but even better, I never had to come across him in court!……….
Well rounded, well respected, and well loved by everyone, he will be sorely missed.
Family, that was the one of the best obituaries, I have ever read in my life, well done!
Love.
Paul Parsons
P.S. I know in my heart, of hearts, you “will take care of each other”
Debbie Tipert
My deepest condolences to the Donnelly family. I had the pleasure of working with him at the Goderich Court office for many years. He will be truly missed by all.
Howard Borenstein
My deepest condolences to the entire Donnelly family on their loss. I met Jim in the late 80’s through my wife Kate Doorly. Whenever I spoke with or later corresponded with Jim, he was always so warm and genuinely interested in our lives and our work in criminal law in particular. I remember the last time I saw him, after he retired from the bench, he was so engaged in talking through a tough legal issue. His warmth throughout was infectious.
I am sure the great positive impact he had on his family throughout his life will live on throughout their lives. Howard Borenstein
Sharon Keenan
To the Donnelly Family
On behalf of the family of the late “Red” (Harold) Warren; we would like to convey our condolences to you all. Jim, was a cherished and long time friend of our father. They shared many times together and we are so very grateful for his compassion and support to Dad during his final days. His legacy and contributions to the town and citizens of Goderich are an inspiration for all; indeed a lifetime of accomplishments well deserved of a celebration of honour.
Jim Wallace
My crew were at a site on Waterloo St in Goderich rebuilding an old wrought iron fence . We were wondering if the owner thought as much of the fence as we did. Jim Donnelly walked by with his little black dog, and said ” Nice job gentlemen.” We new we had done the right thing.
Gail Fraser
Judge Donnely was an amazing influence on our 2 daughters at Woodlands golf course. He always joked that his tips were to go to Western.
Thank you for being kind and positive and instilling the idea of reaching for the stars in our girls💙
KAREN STURDY
To the Donnelly Family; HAVING KNOWN JUSTICE DONNELLY IN VARIOUS CAPACITIES FOR 60 OF MY 80 YEARS ON EARTH, I CAN ONLY SAY, ‘WHAT A FULL AND ACCOMPLISHED LIFE!” HE EXCELLED IN WHATEVER HE TACKLED. MIKE KNEW HIM IN HIS BASEBALL COACHING AND I KNEW HIM IN THE COURTS AND ON TOWN COUNCIL. WE BOTH KNOW JUST HOW MUCH HE WILL BE MISSED BY YOU ALL. PLEASE ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES. KAREN STURDY & MIKE RUSSELO
Dulce and Ray Vanasse
Our deepest sympathies to the Donnelly family. Our thoughts are with you. We feel lucky to have met Jim, even if for a short time on a plane ride to Florida. Jim shared stories of his life, his family, and the town of Goderich. He was a great story teller and we learned things from him that no history book had written…yet. You don’t come across too many people in life that upon first meeting, you recognize as a real gem. That was Jim to us on that airplane. Warm hugs to the Donnelly family and rest in peace Jim.
Jack Braithwaite
Dear Teresa,
So sorry for your loss – with the great memories of your Dad, you have the support of family, friends and my prayers to try to ease you through each passing day.
Take care,
Jack
Ken & Sylvia McGee
Jim was his own man- full of good humour, fought for everyone the same, rich or poor. Great historian, grat counciller. He will be so missed by his large family and friends.
Penny Shackelton
Sincerest condolences to the family in the passing of a great man. I had the pleasure of meeting and working with him in the court system when he was reassigned back to SW Region. He was always a pleasure to speak with, would travel wherever and take on any trial placed before him. I true gentleman who treated everyone with respect. Thinking of the Donnelly Family. Sincerely Penny Shackelton (aka Marr)
Douglas Culbert
He will be truly missed. Everyone has great memories and comments on his life, but for me most of all when he spoke, i listened. Be it as a councilor or on the street, always kind wise words.
Jim Mulhern
Our condolence to Jim’s family.
Jim, Mona and Brennan Mulhern
Marty Gilbert
Teresa, Mike, Mary and family. Sincere and heartfelt condolences to you as well as your family. My thoughts are with you.
Lynda Payton Templeton
Sending you my sincere condolences for the loss of your father, Theresa. It is never easy no matter the age. Your Dad was an icon. You have carried his torch in the pursuit of justice so well. Wishing you peace and hope in your grief. Lynda
Alvin McGee
I have known Jim a lifetime. appearing in court one time as a witness against his client; Jim asked if I had developed a problem of comprehension’ My answer to him was, ‘in answering some of your question I have’ He will be missed by all who Knew him’
Natalie Steenstra
On behalf of Community Living-Central Huron I offer you our sincere condolences. The entire Donnelly family has been part of our organization for years; we remember both Jim and Mary for their unwavering support and commitment – thank you. We are truly honoured that many of you have followed in your parent’s footsteps by continuing to embrace CL-CH’s vision and mission by dedicating your time, talents and support over the years. Thinking of the Donnelly Family as you celebrate a life well lived.
Nancy Lockhart
Thinking of you and your family at this time, Teresa.
I know how much you admired your Dad and how proud he must have been of you.
You were clearly a loving and much loved daughter.
May he Rest In Peace.
Yours,
Nancy
Jack Kirkpatrick
My deepest sympathy to the Donnelly family. I had great respect for Jim. He was very knowledgeable and professional in all his endeavors. He will be missed.
Jack Kirkpatrick, Kincardine Ontario
Dennis LeBlanc
Mr. Donnelly was a gracious man who had time for everyone and gave back to the town in many ways. If you ever wanted to pattern your life after someone he would have been an excellent choice. My condolences to the entire family and friends a sad day for sure. dennis
Lori Rounds
My condolences to the Donnelly Family. I had the pleasure of working for the Town of Goderich during the 12 years that Jim was on council. He will be missed. I am sorry that I will not be able to attend the visitation as I will be out of town but please know my thoughts are with all of his family and friends.
Tammy Gibbons
Sending my condolences to the Donnelly family! I feel very blessed to have shared great memories with Mr. D while playing on his baseball teams as well as riding in the Donnelly van/bus that was graciously loaned for the early days of the Ringette team that Kathleen & Sheila played on. Later in life in found myself crossing paths with him again testing him for his driver’s license for 80 years of age an older! I watched this car pull in with antlers attached to the side windows and a big red nose on the front hood of the car and who opens the car door but the one and only Mr. Donnelly. I feel honored to have been mentioned in the famous news letter! It’s important to share with loved ones how much someone touched your life and I will always be a better person for having Jim in mine.
John and Heather Mackenzie
Our heartfelt condolences to the Donnelly family. Jim was a great man and left a beautiful legacy in his family. He will be missed. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Take care.
John and Heather Mackenzie
Rick Healy and Jane Anderson Rick Healy and Jane Anderson
Jim Donnelly, a man, extremely easy to admire!
Rick Healy & Jane Anderson
Fernanda Lorre Jones
My condolences to all the family of James Donnelly.
He was a very good neighbour and friend.
Fernanda Lorre Jones.
Debbie Delyea
Deepest Sympathy to the family.
Jeff and Jane Cowan
The Cowan family (and Sunset Beach neighbours) send their condolences to the extended Donnelly clan on this loss of such a wonderful and outstanding father, granddfather and great-grandfather. He had a remarkable and varied successful career and life, and his presence on the beach and in/on the water in the summertime was a feature of Sunset Beach. Our thoughts are with you all.
Jeff and Jane Cowan
Anne Murphy
Jim was a remarkable man but so down to earth.He will be greatly missed but his legacy will carry on through that wonderful family.RIP Jim…our whole family loved you.
Nestor Prisco
From Family to public life, Jim had an impact in many quarters. Sincere sympathy to the Family.
Nestor Prisco, North Bay ON.
Charlie Wick
Sincere condolences to the entire Donnelly family.
Jim was a great man in every respect and will be missed.
Lucky for us he has left a great family to pass on his legacy.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Charlie Wick and the entire Wick family .
Carolyn Gray
My sincerest condolences to the Donnelly family. My prayers and thoughts are with the family. I did not have the pleasure of meeting Justice Donnelly, but my late husband Edward Ducharme was so thrilled to have the opportunity to meet with Justice Donnelly. He respected and cherished the times he had the opportunity to chat with him. He shared those memories with me. God Bless the family
Sonja Plunkett (Lapaine)
I have so many memories of Jim Donnelly and his family as a child at Sunset Beach and through friendships with his children. What a great man!! He will be missed. I know that his family will be proud to carry on his great legacies! 💔♥️
Carol Williams
Your dad was a wonderful happy man!
Sending sympathies too you all !
Sincerely CarolWilliams
Jeannette Schoemaker
To the family.
Mr. Donnelly was a kind, gentlemen. I will miss seeing & chatting with him at the big house!
My condolences, Jeannette.
Gwyn Hastings
My condolences to the family!
Denise and Grant Langlois
Sincere condolences to Jim’s family. He was a great friend of a dear friend of mine that I was lucky to take care of in his final five years of his life (Peter Patterson). Jim was the definition of a true friend, he was always there for Peter. Jim also helped me out with great advice and true honesty. He will be missed my many. I will always remember his big smile and friendly attitude.
Don Elliott
Mr Donnelly was always friendly & professional in our meetings. My condolences to the family, as I went to school with Moira, Denis & Teresa.
Jim & Shelagh McDade
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family as you mourn your remarkable father, grandfather and friend.l
Shannon Stewart
What an amazing legacy of a life well lived. Sending heart-felt thoughts and condolences to the family. I hope that you find comfort in the wonderful memories of your father.
Fr. John Jasica
Jim was a great man of faith, dedicated to his family and his community. He always had time to chat and was someone who made the world a much better place.
He will be greatly missed!! My condolences to all his family and friends who loved him so much.
May Jim receive his eternal reward in the kingdom of heaven!
Rosemary Foran
Our sympathy to the entire Donnelly clan; you were truly blessed with two remarkable parents. Jim will be remembered by many, he had the ability to get right to the point of a situation, event or story. His beautiful soul will leave a trail of memories. Rosemary and Family.
Bill Weber
I had the privledge of meeting and playing golf with Mr. Donnelly in Seaforth, I found him to be a most interesting and enjoyable man and a real treat to play with.
Bill Weber
Mary E Hansen
He was a great family man and a pillar in the community!
Everyone knew Jim and he would make a point of making your acquaintance no matter the circumstances.
He will be missed but his legacy will carry on for years to come.
RIP Jim Donnelly. You are well deserving of a great send-off and a fine Celebration of Life!!
My condolences to the entire family!
Mary Hansen
Adam and Jakob Webb
Harold and Dianne Leddy
To the Donnelly Family
We were sorry to hear of the passing of your dad and grampa. He was an amazing gentleman
And a great friend. I helped move your parents into the home on St George’s Crescent and worked for them for 50plus
Years. Certainly going to miss you, my Friend, you might have gotten me out of trouble a couple of times. Rest In Peace, Mr Jim.
Kim and Hugh Burgsma
Our condolences to the family. He was a man who enriched our community in many ways.
Sue Swan
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your Father. Truly a great man !
Carole Ann Kinkead
Many great memories of Jim and Mary over the year’s as neighbors and fellow parishioners. Thank you for your friendship. God bless you and your family. Carole Ann Kinkead
Barb Allen
Deepest sympathies, Donnellys from the Britnell family. I know our dad Jim will be anxiously awaiting your dad Jim’s arrival – for a catch up visit!
bev lecomte
I am very sorry for your loss. My condolences to Nora, Mike, and the rest of the family.
Bev (Rutledge)
Judith Van Lammers
I have been chosen as the speaker of the Van Lammers, Rosenbaum’s and Clancy’s. Our deep condolences to Moira, Steve Kavanagh’s wife. We love you very much and are thinking about you during this very sad time. Also, our condolences to your close, beautiful family. Your father is in a much better place now but I know he will be greatly missed.
Jean-Paul, Laura, Alexander and Michaela Cauchi
Dear Donnelly Family….your Dad lived an amazing full life and leaves a legacy that you should all be proud of. Grief passes and all of the wonderful memories remain forever. All the best to you all. The Cauchi family…..Jean-Paul, Laura, Alexander and Michaela
Rod Seiling
A special friend, a gentleman who valued friends and family who never forgot who he was nor what was truly important in the great game of life.