James J. McClenahan Jr., 59 of Massapequa passed suddenly Thursday, August 22, 2024 with his loving family at his side. Jimmy was born on Long Island on May 23, 1965 and spent his life bringing joy and laughter to everyone he encountered. His love for others, especially children, was one of his greatest gifts. Throughout his life, Jimmy embarked on various adventures in self-employment which encompassed bringing fun, happiness, and entertainment to others. From starting his own party company while in high school, to owning a store that supplied fun gifts for newborns, to his Christmas stocking and ornament booths in the malls, and ultimately becoming the most talented and loved children’s entertainer as “The Magic & Comedy of Jim McClenahan.” Jim performed for thousands upon thousands of children and families across Long Island, Westchester, and New York City for over 20 years at schools, libraries, parks, day camps, and Adventureland. Most notably in his career, Jimmy became the resident magician at White Post Farms for the last 15 years where he found his home away from home and was “the face of the farm.” Children adored him!
No matter where Jimmy went, he made a friend. Whether he was at a restaurant, on vacation, or shopping in the grocery store, Jimmy never met a stranger. He took the time to learn your name, share a story, listen to you, and develop a relationship. He always woke up with a smile and made his husband, Chris laugh on a daily basis. The two of them were inseparable as they shared a bond like no one else. Jimmy lived life the way it should be lived. He was happy, thoughtful, kind, generous, funny, and loved with his whole heart.
At the young age of five, Jimmy began dressing up as Santa for his younger brothers and continued the tradition for the family for over fifty years. Beyond his enjoyment of magic and entertaining children, what he loved most was bringing friends and family together. Whether it was a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, a backyard party, or a random weekday evening, Jimmy loved to cook and feed his guests. A week never went by without him entertaining in his home with Chris. He created an atmosphere of warmth and joy as he brightened every room he entered, ensuring that everyone was “Havin’ a Good Time.”
Jimmy is survived by his loving husband of 26 years, his mother Eileen, his brothers Johnny (Graceann), Kevin (Tina), 19 nephews and nieces, his aunts & uncles, and countless friends, all who loved him dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in his name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org An organization so dear to Jimmy's heart.
Memorial Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 27th 3-8 PM
Funeral Mass Wednesday, August 28th 9:30 AM
St. William the Abbot RC Church, Seaford, NY
Charles G. Schmitt Funeral Home
St. William the Abbot RC Church
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