Obituary of Jim Merrylees

James Merrylees (Jim, Jimmy, "Jimboborn" April 3, 1947) passed away peacefully in hospital on July 12, 2026, at the age of 79. Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 60 years, Heather Merrylees, and his loving children, Scot Merrylees and Jennifer Merrylees. Born in London, Ontario, Jim was known for his boundless energy from an early age and for his unwavering dedication to his family. A gifted athlete, he loved many sports, but baseball held a special place in his heart—especially when it came to cheering on his beloved Detroit Tigers. He attended Beal Secondary School, Fanshawe College, and also spent a short time at Western University. Some of Jim's happiest memories were made as a teenager and young man alongside his brothers and sister (Bill, Tom, Jack, Linda and good friend Otto) playing baseball, slow-pitch, broomball, and hockey, or spending time at Sandhills Park and the local gathering spots—as long as Labatt 50 was on tap. From 1972 to 2001, Jim and his family called Huron Park home. He became a cornerstone of the community, always ready to teach someone how to drive, ride a bicycle, snowmobile, or dirt bike. He showed others how to tie a tie, solve an equation, and, most importantly, do the right thing. Known as the neighbourhood handyman, Jim could fix almost anything with ingenuity, determination, and, more often than not, a roll of duct tape. He was creative, especially when it came to building the unforgettable "Magnificent Merrylees Machine." Jim generously shared his time and talents as a Cub Scout leader and as a soccer and baseball coach. A natural organizer, he brought people together through community corn, pig and lobster boils, parties, obstacle courses, meat draws, and countless fundraisers for those in need. His generosity knew no bounds, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Throughout his life, Jim remained actively involved in Sheet Metal Workers Local 473, the Royal Canadian Legion, and as a volunteer with the London Food Bank. He approached life with enthusiasm, never losing his playful sense of humour or his love of a good prank. One of Jim's proudest accomplishments was earning his pilot's licence. He found true peace soaring through the calm blue skies. He loved music of every kind and was an excellent dancer. Whether riding his bicycle for miles each day, playing pool or cards, spending time fishing from a pier. Jim embraced every moment. In his later years, you could often find him relaxing with a ball game on television, an ice-filled glass of Pepsi—never Coke—and perhaps two fingers of Bacardi White Rum. Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched. Cremation has been completed by London Cremation Services