William James McClelland Jr.'s Obituary
William "Bill" James McClelland Jr.
May 31, 1944 – May 6, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of William "Bill" James McClelland Jr., who left us on May 6, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. Born on May 31, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Bill was the cherished son of William James McClelland and Jane Hamilton.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend. His love for his extended family—including many cousins, nieces, and nephews—ran deep. He cherished the memories made with his loved ones over the years. He shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joanne McClelland. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and enduring friendship, living in Illinois, Indiana, and ultimately settling in Texas to be closer to their grandsons.
A passionate sports enthusiast and a true Chicagoan at heart, Bill was a loyal fan of the Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks. He loved to travel, especially to Florida’s beaches, where he enjoyed beach walks and the ocean view. He also found joy in reading mystery novels and, in his later years, savoring a good scotch. Bill took great pride in his Scottish and Irish ancestry.
Bill served in the Army Reserves for six years, demonstrating his dedication and sense of duty. He began his professional career as a computer programmer and later becoming a Business Manager at a law firm in Merrillville, Indiana. Throughout his career, he formed many lifelong friendships. Known for his great personality and unforgettable sense of humor, Bill’s classic dad jokes and laugh brought joy to everyone he met. His family remembers him as loving, loyal, and endlessly generous.
Bill's Catholic faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was the proud father of three children and the devoted grandfather of three grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and will miss him dearly. He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne; his children, William McClelland, Michael McClelland (Kristin), and Jodie Ballard (Spencer); and his treasured grandchildren, Francesca, William, and Andrew.
Bill will be remembered as an amazing husband and father, lifelong friend, a favorite cousin, and a beloved uncle to many. His legacy of love, laughter, and faith will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Bill’s life, with details to be shared with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Cancer Research Institute or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—charities close to Bill’s heart.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
“May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
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