Obituary of Hugh Hendry McLellan

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Hugh H. McLellan on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at his home in Rothesay, New Brunswick.

Hugh was born on May 25, 1948 in Saint John and attended Rothesay Collegiate School and the University of New Brunswick. In 1969, he joined his father Hendry in the practice of law as McLellan & McLellan. Hugh enthusiastically continued to practice law in Saint John until 1986, when he was appointed as a Judge of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick, Trial Division, in Woodstock. He returned to Saint John in 1994 and served as a judge until his retirement in 2023. He thoroughly enjoyed the variety of his work, presiding over cases in both official languages, and in every corner of the province.

Hugh was actively involved in many organizations including the Law Society of New Brunswick, the Saint John Law Society, and the Saint John Port Commission, and was one of the founders of the Church of St. John & St. Stephen Nursing Home. Prior to his appointment as a judge, he was also an active member in the military reserves in various roles including Commanding Officer of 722 Communication Squadron where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.

Hugh met his amazing bride Judy in the inaugural class of UNBSJ in 1964. They were married in 1969 and went on to have five children. A family man to his core, Hugh was a loving husband and father. He inspired a great interest amongst his children in outdoor activities including hiking, camping, skiing, windsurfing, and time at the family camp on Belleisle Bay. A favourite activity was the annual backcountry ski trip to Mt. Washington. With Judy, he led by example and inspired in his children and grandchildren a tremendous work ethic, determination and generosity. His weekly Sunday email with family updates, photos and positivity will be deeply missed.

In his later years, he continued to have an adventurous spirit and pursued many other interests including snowboarding, kayaking, cycling and ham radio. He enjoyed scuba diving in the Bay of Fundy and various tropical locations. A voracious reader, he excelled at family Trivial Pursuit and Scrabble games.

He is survived by his wife Judy and their five children: Cathy (Gerry Adams), Dave (Karen), Lloyd (Kamini), Tom (Linsie), and Lynn; eight grandchildren: Helena, Laura, Leah, Neela, Callie, Emily, Daniel and Norah, as well as his brother Andrew McLellan (Debbie). He was predeceased by his parents, Hendry and Catherine (MacLean) McLellan of Saint John.

Visitation will be held at Brenan’s Funeral Home Paradise Row (111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB) on Friday, May 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church (101 Coburg St) on Saturday, May 24 at 11 a.m. Interment will take place in Fernhill Cemetery. For those unable to attend the funeral service, please view the livestream by visiting the Grace Presbyterian Church youtube channel. 

Donations in Hugh's memory can be made to the Church of St. John & St.Stephen Nursing Home or the charity of your choice.