MELONG, James "Jim" Joseph - of Havre Boucher, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, in St. Martha's Regional Hospital, Antigonish at the age of 83.

Born on July 1, 1942, Jim was the son of the late Joe and Anna Melong. He spent most of his life in his beloved hometown, where he became known as everyone's go-to-handyman, a true Jack of All Trades who loved building, creating and helping others.

Jim had a passion for antique cars, playing cards, tinkering with machines and spending time with his family and friends. He was always proud of building his home and the life that he created in it. Anyone who knew Jim, knew that he enjoyed the simple things in life and was a very kind man at heart.

Jim will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 42 years, Martina O'Neill and his son, Thomas Melong (Kristofer). He is also survived by his siblings, Johnny (Theresa), Eric (Julia - deceased), Lori (Wes), Vera (Shawn), Betty Jean (Ves), Ruth (Eddie - deceased) and Yvonne (Leonard); and his daughter, Denise (from who he was seperated from at a young age), as well as many nieces, nephews and his wife's family (the Pellerine's) and many others to long to list.

Jim was predeceased by his daughter, Brenda (from who he was seperated from at a young age) as well as his siblings, Bertram "Bert" (survived by Alice), Bruce, Bernard "Bernie", Berchmans "Berkie" (survived by Mary) and Charles "Charlie" (Marion deceased).

Visitation will be from 9 - 10:45 a.m. Saturday in St. Paul's Centre, Havre Boucher. Funeral mass will follow at 11 a.m. from St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church, Havre Boucher with Father Allan MacPhie officiating. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery in the spring. Family flowers only, memorial donations may be made to St. Martha's Palliative Care Unit or to the family. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com