Jim McBrayne, former reeve of Thamesville and Warden of Kent County, has died.

McBrayn graduated from the GM School for Business in Flint Michigan and began work at McBrayne Motors in Thamesville.

In 1961, they began Thames Transport, he drove truck and co-managed the company until 1971. He worked for five years for Agriculture Canada arranging employment for migrant workers.

During that time, McBrayne served his community a councillor and Reeve for Thamesville.

In 1971 he was elected Warden of Kent County

In 1978 Jim and his wife, Betty, and friends bought The Outpost Lodge in Thessalon, Ontario, managing that until 1985.

After the sale, the McBraynes moved home and Jim began his career as village lead hand in Thamesville until his retirement.

The McBraynes were married for eight days short of 70 years, according to his obituary.

“Father, friend, community leader or community sidewalk sweeper, whatever was needed Jim had the heart, shoes, work boots and hat for the job,” Gail McBrayne, Jim’s daughter-in-law writes on social media.

“With Betty at his side they served as role models for their three sons Randy, Jim Jr and Brent. They embodied the importance of prioritizing family while balancing home life, work, play, and community.

“Jim loved Thamesville and the surrounding communities. His pride in his community was shown at all levels through his political career as Reeve of Thamesville and Warden of Kent County. His contributions to the Oddfellows service club, his job as Thamesville Town Foreman, and his Canada Post rural delivery route with Betty were all done with a quiet sense of responsibility and pride,” McBrayne added on social media.

In retirement, McBrayne writes, he could be found at “The Table of Knowledge” at the local coffee shop or hanging out on the bench outside the post office, sharing events of the day with friends and family.

Family and friends will gather April 19 at the Thamesville Legion for a Celebration of Life from 1 to 5 pm.