Obituary

Rev. James Cheetham McClymont Jr., 88, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, in Lewisberry, Pennsylvania with family at his side.

Born on March 17, 1937, in Southampton, New York, James—known to many as Jim—led a life marked by deep faith, intellectual pursuit, and dedication to his family. His academic journey was distinguished and diverse; he studied at Princeton University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.), Rutgers University, and ultimately Dallas Theological Seminary. These institutions shaped not only his intellect but also his calling to serve others through pastoral leadership and teaching.

Jim’s spiritual transformation began in 1970 when he committed his life to Jesus Christ. He became a member of Jacksonville Chapel in Lincoln Park, New Jersey—a pivotal moment that would define the course of his life. Just two years later, hearing God’s calling in his life, he left his career as a chemical engineer and he moved his family to Texas to attend Dallas Theological Seminary. Upon completing his theological education, Jim returned to New Jersey in 1977 to accept the role of pastor at Mendham Hills Chapel. This marked the beginning of a three-decade-long ministry during which he faithfully served as a pastor and teacher across various churches.

Jim's devotion extended beyond the pulpit; it was evident in every aspect of his life. He was a man who lived out his beliefs with humility and conviction, touching countless lives through his sermons, counsel, and example.

He shared this journey with his beloved wife Jean Marie McClymont until her passing on July 8, 2013. Together they raised six sons: James, Jonathan, Jeremy, Jody, Jay, and Joshua. Jim’s legacy continues through his sons and their families, James and Bonnie of Whitman, MA, Jonathan of Harrisburg, PA, Jeremy of Palmer Township, PA, Jody and Darlene of Lewisberry, PA, Jay and Valerie of Camp Hill, PA, and Joshua and Kristi of Fairfax, VA along with twenty one grandchildren and three great grandchildren Jim, along with his brother Stephen Eyre, were the only two sons of James Cheetham and Naomi Rae (Bennett) McClymont.