James Leonard "J.L." McClelland

Mr. James Leonard “J.L.” McClelland, age 96, a native of Douglas, Georgia passed away Monday morning, November 11, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his family, following a stroke. J. L. was born September 11, 1928 to the late Virginia Garbett McClelland and the late Leonard Arley McClelland. He was the firstborn of eight children. He lived on the family farm until he graduated from Coffee High School at which time he enlisted in the U S Navy and spent four years on active duty. After his tenure he returned home to Douglas and met and married the love of his life, Louise Nelson. He later continued his service in the Naval Reserves for 20 years. J.L. and Louise moved to Jacksonville, Florida in 1954. He continued his career there as an Electrician, and was a member of Local IBEW 177 Jacksonville Florida. He spent his career working and living in Jacksonville, Florida. He was a member at Terry Parker Baptist Church in Jacksonville for almost 50 years. J. L. spent his adult life in ministry for a variety of service organizations including Florida Baptist Convention Disaster Relief, Habitat for Humanity and the Morocco Shriners of Jacksonville, Florida. After they retired and returned home to the family farm in Douglas he and Louise joined First Baptist Church of Douglas where he served as a deacon. He continued his ministry of service to his community through Men of Acts and Georgia Disaster Relief as well as Salvation Army at Christmas each year as bell ringer. He was also a volunteer at Douglas Food Bank and was actually on his way to serve the day he was taken ill. J L's passion in life was to make sure everyone knew Jesus, especially his family. He had a true servant’s heart and an unwavering devotion and love for Jesus Christ. He was a true soldier of Christ and would ask virtually everyone he met, "Do you know Jesus?” Along with his parents, J.L. was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 70 years, Louise Nelson McClelland, and siblings: Vera McClelland, Faye McClelland, Geraldine Johnson, Brenda Tyler, Leon McClelland and Mack McClelland; and son-in-law, Ted Ouzts. J.L. is survived by: 2 children: Pam Ouzts of Blairsville, Georgia, Jimmy McClelland (Sarina) of Jacksonville, Florida; 1 sister, Peggy Neptune (Chip) of Hiawassee, Georgia; 4 grandsons: Chase McClelland, Jameson McClelland, Preston Devall, Aaron Devall; 4 great-grandchildren: Nolan, Lucas, Nash, and Laila; 4 step-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. J.L.’s family will receive friends on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 11:30 PM – 1:00 PM in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church of Douglas. His funeral will begin at 1:00 PM with Rev. Don Hattaway officiating. Interment will follow in Douglas City Cemetery. Condolences may be left for J.L.’s family online at www.ricketsonfuneralhome.com. Ricketson Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

James Leonard "J.L." McClelland

September 11, 1928 - November 11, 2024