James B. McClelland

Hampton- James (Jamie) Bailey McClelland, 57, of Hampton, NH, passed away on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Born in Salem, MA, December 19, 1965, to Carol Lee Sawyer (Chapin) (Cape Elizabeth, ME) and the late Bruce McClelland (wife Janis McClelland of Allen, TX). He leaves behind his wife, Kristen Rand McClelland, his two children Olivia McClelland and Angus McClelland, brother Chip McClelland (wife Juhi of Raleigh, NC), in-laws Bob and Sherry Rand (North Hampton, NH), Aunt Marie (Mimi) Chapin Plumley (husband Allan R. Plumley, Jr. deceased) (Arlington, VA), cousins Christopher Plumley, Allan R. Plumley III and Carolyn P. Stombock (VA), Carol (Missy) Chapin (FL), Richard Chapin (Deceased), nephews Christopher, Chipper and Patrick McClelland, half-brother Peter Kullgren, dog Hammer, a plethora of extended family members and too many friends to mention. Raised in Marblehead MA, Oshkosh, WI, Lewisville, TX, and Acton, MA. He attended Acton-Boxborough Regional High School. He spent numerous years working in the restaurant arena and rose to Sous Chef under Wolfgang Puck at Postrio in San Francisco, a chef at 21 Federal in Nantucket, and many other fine establishments. He was an extraordinarily talented and passionate chef and kitchen leader. In the off-season, he became a carpenter in Nantucket, leading him to a second career as a master craftsman, carpenter, and contractor. He owned and operated his own construction company, McClelland Building Company. His work with the Green Woodlands Foundation in Dorchester, NH where all timber and wood was felled and milled onsite, and power was supplied via Hydroelectric and solar onsite. This was a particularly fascinating and fulfilling endeavor for him. Jamie’s creations were to be admired; they were solid, beautiful, and will last for generations. This is an important part of his legacy. He met his wife Kris in high school. After graduating, they parted ways only to reconnect years later and marry in 2012. Suffering five breaks to his right ankle through the years via sports, being struck by a car as a pedestrian, and many more minor injuries left him in a state where simply walking was extremely painful and difficult. In 2018 he made the courageous decision to undergo the groundbreaking ‘Ewing’ procedure, having his lower right leg amputated mid-calf. He devoted time and efforts to the Heather Abbott Foundation which benefits amputees and appeared on TV and in other media streams to draw focus to the needs of the amputation community. His love of everything outdoors, the ocean & beach, dogs, family, and friends brought him joy beyond measure. He spent his free time fishing, ice climbing, paddling, camping, hunting, scootering, and telling fantastic stories. He was a CAT 2 bicycle racer, a kayak instructor, and a born leader who took countless people under his wings and taught them skills & lessons to enrich lives. He emanated passion, zest, and a fierceness towards life to be admired. He had a razor-sharp wit and a fearlessness like no other. He was not a quiet man, he was full of life, character and was one of a kind. With his enormous heart, he made everyone feel like a best friend. His strength, tenacity, and perseverance were immeasurable. Loved and cherished by all who knew him, he will be terribly missed, yet we vow his tireless spirit will live on within us. His presence shall be felt near, and his memory alive forever. We Love you, Jamie. A celebration of life will be held at the Word Barn, 66 Newfields Road, Exeter, NH on Saturday, July 8, 2023, from 3-5 PM. Casual dress and please bring your stories, pictures, and memories. Gifts in memory of James may be made to the Heather Abbott Foundation by clicking here

James B. McClelland

December 19, 1965 - May 30, 2023