James A. McLean Sr., son of the late Daniel E. Sr. & Nettie McLean, was born on May 28, 1941, in Trenton, New Jersey. He departed this life on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the Community Medical Center, in Toms River, New Jersey after a lengthy illness. He was affectionately known as Butch to his siblings and Jimmy to his family and friends. When he was young, his parents moved to Asbury Park from Trenton in the late 1950’s. Jimmy received his education in the Asbury Park School Systems.
Jimmy was employed at Freedman’s Bakery in Belmar, New Jersey for 40 years where he held varies positions. He was a dedicated and exemplary employee. When Jimmy was not working, he was spending quality time with his family and friends. He enjoyed hosting gatherings at his home, cooking, taking pictures and videos creating everlasting memories.
Jimmy was a member of the Mt. Pisgah Masonic Lodge #48 Prince Hall for 20 plus years where he received his 33rd degree in Masonry.
One of his siblings introduced Jimmy to the love of his life, the late Jeanette Williams. Later they married and through this union they had six children. Jimmy was a devoted husband to his wife Jeanette for 30 years until her untimely death on June 21, 1991. He was also a devoted Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Cousin & Friend.
His legacy and loving memory will continue to be cherished by his children, Deborah, Cassandra & James A. Jr., his grandchildren Basir, Amirah, Porsche, Bahsid, Mustapha, Thomas, Eniya and Nasyr, nine great grands, three sisters, Lannie (Maxine), Barbara (Bobbi) and Celeste, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and loved ones..
Jimmy was predeceased by his parents, his children Jethro, Elizabeth, Tanya, his siblings, Nettie, Daniel, Sarah, Joseph, Frances, David and a special friend Molly.
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