James A. MacDonaldpassed away peacefully in New York City after a long battle with dementia. He was born in Hanover, NH on March 19, 1951, the son of Malcolm A. MacDonald and Elaine (Campbell) MacDonald.

Jimmy attended Hanover High School in the class of 1970 and graduated from Keene State College with a B.A. in 1974. At Keene State he was a member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity and majored in physical education. He maintained close ties with both his high school and college friends over the years by attending reunions and keeping in touch through social media.

After graduating from college, he joined the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a recreation specialist with the Navajo Agency in Chinle, AZ. He then transferred to the Department of Defense as a recreation specialist at Hanau Air Force Base in Germany. He enjoyed exploring Germany and anyone who knows Jimmy can only imagine him driving along the Autobahn in his used Mercedes. He returned to the United States, working at Fort Hamilton Army Base in Brooklyn, NY. He continued his career at both Hunter College and Columbia University in New York City.

Jimmy enjoyed living in New York City, but, always hoped to return to the Upper Valley when he retired. He remained connected to the Upper Valley and returned home often to visit family and friends. He loved studying the history of the Upper Valley and did extensive research on New Hampshire World War II veterans as well as the town of Enfield where his mother grew up. His other passion was sports, from high school, to college and his time in New York City; Jimmy was an avid follower of all sports.

Jimmy had an outgoing personality and a genuine interest in people and their stories. He always wanted to know how his friends were doing, what was happening in Hanover and was happy to meet new people. It was with great sadness that dementia robbed Jimmy of his keen interest in the world around him.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his sister Martha who lives in Hanover, NH, family members and his wide circle of friends.

It is with immense gratitude and appreciation to his caregivers at Citadel Rehabilitation Center, Luz Rivera, Eric Metcalf, family & friends for their kindness and support during this long and difficult journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hanover High School Athletics, 41 Lebanon St., Hanover, NH 03755. Checks may be made out to the Dresden School District.

There will be a graveside committal service in the spring followed by a gathering of family & friends in remembrance of Jimmy. Arrangements were made by Rand-Wilson Funeral Home.