James Edward McElenney

Phoenix, AZ - James Edward McElenney (81) of Sun Lakes, AZ since 2003, passed away, surrounded by family, on Saturday, May 26, 2018 following a stroke.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife of 58 years Patricia Ann "Patty" (Keenan) McElenney; his daughter Mary Elizabeth "Mary Beth" (McElenney) Thomas, her husband Jeff Thomas and their children Lindsay, Evan and Ellen; Jim's son Sean Keenan McElenney and his wife Bridget (Fite) McElenney and their children Molly, Brenna, James "JD", Megan and Nicholas; and many close friends. Jim was preceded by his Sister Mary Alice, and his parents Mary Elizabeth "Betty" and Francis "Mac".

Jim was born August 15, 1936 in Elmhurst, IL and was raised in San Pedro, CA where he attended St. Anthony's High School graduating in 1954. He attended Columbia University where he lettered in football and graduated with a B.A. in 1958. Jim then attended Creighton University earning his M.S. in 1961 and his D.D.S. in 1963. While at Creighton Jim met the girl-next-door, Patty, and they married on May 28, 1960.

Jim joined the Navy in 1963 which took him to San Diego, CA where he stayed until he opened his dental practice in Orange, CA in 1965. He practiced dentistry for 40 years. Jim loved practicing his comedic skills on his patients which took him to acting in plays, commercials and stand-up comedy. Jim was a devoted husband, a loving father and a good friend to many. He leaves behind a legacy of strong faith, a love of learning, commitment to family, and the importance of friends. He will be dearly missed.

Funeral services will be held at St Anthony's church on July 6, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. (600 Olive Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802). Reception to follow. Internment at All Souls Cemetery 2:00 p.m. (4400 Cherry Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807).

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Precious Life Shelter in Los Alamitos, CA (www.preciouslifeshelter.org) or Creighton University Dental School.