Jimmy, our beloved who made life so special.

Memorial Service

Many friends requested the memorial service be moved to...

Kew West - Thursday - December 15 at sunset, West Martello Botanical Gardens on Higgs Beach, Kew West, FL 33040

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Bill Dobyns |
I am sad to hear of this loss to so many of us who had the pleasure to know him. As I read the many things all of his friends had to say about him I noticed one very common thread. His humor and how much he made us laugh and smile. He was gentleman that always kept his sense of humor. We will miss him.
23 October 2005 - Hemet, California

Maria Ines Segovia
I met Mr McLernan a couple of years ago - it was just a pleasure working with him. He will be remembered and will always be present.
2 October 2005 - Miami Beach
BARBARA PERGAMENT
So I guess I was his last new best friend. We'd only just begun - A cocktail party at his new digs in South Beach - "Hey Jim, I've just moved to Island Ave and can wave to you from the balcony - C'mon over." A lovely lunch - just the 2 of us. I knew that meant I was special. Gorgeous at our Cinematheque's "Oscars" party. And then a phone call with short breaths - "I can't talk very long Barbara, but I'm doing the best I can." Darn it Jim - We'd only just begun.
28 September 2005 - South Beach, Florida
MORRIS K. FELDMAN
I was saddened to hear from a friend in Las Vegas that Jim Mac Clernan had passed away. I lost track of him many years ago but when I was managing the Desert Inn back fifty years ago we were good friends.
He came over from San Francisco one weekend where I believe he was managing some magazine or other and asked if he could audition for a lounge act. We never hired anyone without stage, vaudiville or nigthclub experience but his personality and entusiasm were so great that I decided to give hime a crack at it. A pianist was in the lobby at the time and I hauled him over and put Jim on the podium. OK I said, show us what you can do. He asked Milt to playy an upscale version of "I Can't Give You Anything But Love Baby" and then he starting adlibbing this routine about a tourist from the hicks whod just rolled up to the casino with his wife.He was all hands and eyes and he looked like Al Jolsen in whiteface. Itws rough but hilarious. Particularly the way he could involve and play off the audience. So I gave a trial slot on Friday and Sat nites. I said what do you want to be billed as and he hesitated and then said, How about Jimmy Midnight. Thats how it started.He was a big hit right from the start. He had a way of hitting it off with everybody, staff included. He even became sociable with Dietrich and Noel Coward and some of the other headliners. Of course he could only come over on weekends and in the end that was limiting. We parted good company. I never knew what happened to him until Moe Bergen called this week who had been in Key West with his wife. I can tell by the eulogies he really made something of his life. I was glad a gave him a hand along the way. MKF
22 September 2005 - RENO NEVADA
Scott Smith |
Jimmy Midnight was how I knew him from the days of training him at One to One Fitness above Margaritaville in Key West. We got lots of milage and loads of laughter working "midnight" the retired Las Vegas boxer and shady bookie around the Key West social scene. He played it to the "T". His smile and generousity will be edge in my heart forever. He taught many of us how to properly enjoy a sunset. Thank you for your love and friendship Midnight. Enjoy the eternal sunset!
21 September 2005 - Jackson Hole, WY
Gregory Arvoy
After all that I have read here, I can only say that I wish I had been as fortunate to have shared in the light that Jim gave to so many persons. I only knew Jim a short time - we met 10 yrs ago in LA and again in Portugal where I moved 9 yrs ago. He gave me encouragement and the ability to go forward when I needed it so badly. Thank you all for sharing your thoughts, and thank you Jimmy for sharing yourself! There is certainly a star shining with your name on it......
19 September 2005 - LA - Portugal
Steve Ruh |
Sitting with the boys, on the peir at Higgs beach, any time of the year, watching sunset, smokin' and drinkin' ,laughing and dishin' current movies.
Jimmy is part of that echoed memory in my mind. And a fine one at that. Peace.
15 September 2005 - Provincetown
Tim Gatewood
Excellent idea, Terry. A reunion/meeting may sound silly to some but I encourage everyone to give the idea some thought. Jimmy certainly would give it a try. As I told David recently, Jimmy thrived on bringing people together and perhaps his passing will reunite or introduce some of us who knew him. Even one year would be interesting. I plan to be in Key West for his memorial. THAT should be a stellar event. Just remember Jimmy's smile with the gestures and you will smile.
13 September 2005 - Los Angeles
Terry Hartley
Since our friendship with Jimmy is what we all have in common, it might be interesting to meet once a year on the 24th of Auigust to celebrate his life as well as getting to know one another. I personally know many friends of his that do not have computers in which to express their feelintgs.
13 September 2005 - Red Bank, New Jersey
Edward Cabrera
I was blessed with the honor of knowing Jimmy as a friend and client. Although, I was his personal trainer he always made me feel I was the one who was most important. He would always bring a small gift of candy and tell me " I have something for you". The practical jokes we perpertrated on unsuspecting listeners of our conversations was hillarious. Like the time I asked him, " what was your favorite movie Mr. Newman". To which he replied, "Well that would have to be Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid". As he left the Gym a couple of guys came up to me and said , I told my friend that was Paul Newman. And then wanted to chase him down. I'll always miss you Jimmy
11 September 2005
Werner Schuenemann |
Dear Jimmy,

it has been a few years since we`ve seen one another last. You`ve introduced me to Key west and all your wonderful friends - first and foremost yourself, Pat Lamerdin in San Francisco and many others. It was you who supported me to buy a home on this wonderful island which I kept for a few years. I stayed a many times in your wonderful home and share and preserve a many great memories. You visited us in London a few years back. Thanks for being in my life - you will never be forgotten.

with all my love, Werner
8 September 2005 - France, previously London
Walter de Milly
About 15 years ago, not long after moving to the island, I met Jimmy through Frank Taylor. One day I brought Frank and Jimmy over to meet my new friends David & Danny, Dean & Paul. That was the beginning of the wonderful friendship between Jimmy and David. Now I learn from Mark.s post below, that a few years later, Jimmy brought David to Mark.s table at Square One and thus wrought their changed lives.

What I loved about Jimmy was his humor, but also, simply, his presence. He was so alive that he was magical. Not so long ago at one of those starlit nights at Jimmy.s, I was sitting with David on the couch. Jimmy came over, knelt down, and said .Guys, I have something to tell you.. Then he began singing: .You.re the top! You.re the Mona Lisa. You.re the top! You're tower of Pisa! You.re the top! You.re Mahatma Ghandi. You're the top! You're Napolean brandy..

So all I know to do now is to sing back, Jimmy Midnight McLernon. .You.re the boon! You.re the dam at Boulder. You.re the moon, over Mae West.s shoulder.. I loved you and I miss you.
7 September 2005 - Key West
Barry Pierce |
Jim and Pete were dear friends dating back to Key West Fabrics. Jim listed my firs home, I paid 8,000 and sold for 88,000.00. Jim helped get me on my way to investing. Jim had an incredable sence of humor aand love of life. He would be proud as I cotinued my passion for porperty, ended up in little Capr Coral F; and property has exploded as it did in Key West. He is a guy I will think often of and miss dearly. I wish my partner Anton of seventeen years had the opertunity to meet him.
6 September 2005 - Key West, Florida
Don DeFeo
Dear Jimmy, where have you gone?
I will never forget being invited to your dinner table for the most interesting and controversial evenings. You had the ability to draw together the young and old, the wealthy and not, the talented and the outrageous all at your home for the best parties on the island. I have been privileged......and so was Key West!
6 September 2005 - Weybridge, Vermont
Lauren M. Perry
Uncle Jimmy,
Thanks for all the memories, whether it was playing the piano for me or visiting on the holidays. You never forgot me on my birthday, or at Christmas time. You always kept me encouraged about playing the piano, and showed an interest in everything I did.
I will miss you a lot.
Love, Lauren:-)
5 September 2005 - Warwick, New York
Frank J. Perry
Whenever I asked Susan how her Uncle Jimmy was doing, or what was new with him, it was never "Oh, he's doing fine, nothing new". Rather the answer would be either, Jimmy's having a full moon party this weekend, or he's having Christmas Eve dinner with Leonard Bernstein, or he's going to be a tour guide on a trip down the Nile, or he's working with an organization attempting (and succeeding) in preserving the last living coral reef in North America. I could go on, but you get the picture. Humdrum, I think not. Jimmy always treated Susan, myself and our daughter Lauren as if we were special. With him you knew it was no act, he really meant it. Jim, glad to have had the opportunity to know you. Will miss you. Thanks for everything. I commend you for living life to its fullest.
5 September 2005 - Warwick, NY
Amy Lachat Lynch
I feel lucky that Jim was my friend. He never missed an opportunity to encourage me to be an active environmentalist in Key West. He.d come bounding across the room, the restaurant, the street, wherever our paths would cross, a big smile on his face, ready to discuss the issue of the day and what Last Stand needed to do about it. And, TREES. .We need more trees in Key West,. he.d say, .who can argue about trees? Everyone loves trees.. Jim thought that we should have a memorial tree project in Key West, where we could honor our fallen friends by planting trees that would improve the island. Who could argue with that?
5 September 2005 - Key West
Richard M Bookstaver
James, was our neighbor during the last phase of his life. He became ill while living in south Beach in our building The Floridian.Those of us who came to know him learned to love him
Richard M Bookstaver
President Of The Floridian
4 September 2005 - South Beach
captain curtis wiliam erling white
jim had an infecteous smile and demeanor that just lit up any room and the people within it. i had known jim for 25 years. in that time i was blessed to have known him.
4 September 2005 - key west/sausalito
Gordon Ross
We have lost a wonderful man that I have known since his arrival here in Key West. He was just the best and a large part of what made Key West wonderful in the early years. You are in my heart and mind.
4 September 2005 - Key West Florida
Juergen Drensek |
On my last visit at my close friends Marc and David in SoBe this April I was so impressed about Jimmy's strength, his optimism and absolute will to share as much good times as possible with his beloved friends. He was in such a good mood, hoping that medical treatment will help him to stay with us a long time. He didn't want sad moods and when I hugged him the last time shorty before my departure, I was quite shure, to meet him later this year, again laughing, making jokes, being a wonderful host and excellent communicator. Now I am at least happy that I keep Jimmy in my heart with these memories.
3 September 2005 - Berlin, Germany
Terry Hartley
I have known Jimmy since the eighth grade. I was to Jimmy as Elaine was to Jerry Seinfield. I received the last letter from him on July 24, ,2005, one month before he died. I would like to share that letter because it gives you some indication of how brave Jimmy was. Dear Terry, It was sonderful hearing from you again. and that terrific old picture of those long ago, happy days we had. So many memories.
Yes, I'm dealing with inoperable lung cancer but that's liife and you have to deal with it. So I try to take it one day at a time_but I'm thankful that at 75 I can look back on a happy, full life.
I'm glad your family is still well and you sound in your letter just like the fabulous Terry I knew on Staten Island 60 years ago. And when I look back, I think fabulous is the right word.
I'll stay in touch. Lots of Love, Jimmy
3 September 2005 - Red Bank, New Jersey
Tim Gatewood
Jimmy. You've brought together a great ensemble once again. Almost like being back at 1330, but this time it's a party to celebrate our good fortune in knowing you and seeing your smile. Sweet memories. I feel so lucky to have danced with you this time and I can't wait for the next. Thanks, sister. I love you.
2 September 2005 - Los Angeles
Steve Canning
Although I only met Jimmy once about a year ago when I was with my good friend Timothy Gatewood. We traveled to Miami to visit David Sine and Marc Fast. David and Marc had a dinner party one evening and Jimmy was in attendance. He jubilant personality along with his obvious "zest" for life coming from his most sincere smile made the room light up. I only wish that I had met Jimmy a long time ago. The honor of having his friendship for any length of time would have been a blessing. For all of you who were lucky enough, You already know how blessed you were to have him as a friend I am sure.

We all need more Jimmy's in our lives....
2 September 2005 - Laguna Beach California
Michael Moye
He was great to cry with at the movies. He could send everyone up - and send himself up best of all. Our favorite game was taking the most boring people we knew and inventing outrageous antics for them to play out in our imaginations. My favorite memories? His wild amusement at being confused as a waiter on three occasions by Tennessee Williams. And his 'inside Hollywood' tidbit that Butterfly McQueen had nearly beaten out George C Scott for the role of Patton. But there are more. Hundreds. They'll keep me smiling for the rest of my life.
1 September 2005 - Cape Town, South Africa
Alyce Milan Hinchey
I was saddened to hear of Jimmy's death. His smile, jokes and friendship will be long remembered. He will always be brought to mind when we see a full moon or a sunset.
1 September 2005 - Homosassa, Florida
Ari Shapiro
Jimmy, I feel so lucky to have met you. If only everyone could fill their lives with as much humor, wit, style, friendship, love, and zest as you did. You're a role model for those of us who are continuing on in this world.
1 September 2005 - Washington, DC
udo landow
I met jimmy with dan in Key West a few years ago..and we went together to have a sundowner at the beach and watch the sunset.
I was very touched by Jimmy and we set there almost 2 hours and were talking ..drinking and laughing to his stories. I know that we all will miss him a lot and i am absolutly sure is sitting up on cloud number 7 with a sparkling drink telling jokes and making everybody laugh. God bless you Jimmy you were someone remarkable.
1 September 2005 - Munich - Germany
Holly Izbicki
I only met Jimmy once. Yet his funny stories and our mutal ties to New York made me feel like an old friend. I would have liked to have known Jimmy longer; I , too, am saddened by the loss.
31 August 2005 - Michigan
Dan Outerbridge
From the first time I met Jimmy, I knew he was a "forever friend". There was no way I was letting that one get away. I never realized how gullible I was until after a few "Midnight" stories. I fell for it all the time, from the elderly lady calling from the leasing office complaining about activities at the pool (Jimmy) and the Mayor personally welcoming me back to Key West(Jimmy) The new "swingers" that just moved into my hi-rise and got my number from the doorman (Jimmy). I can really thank him for my expanded sense of humor and delivery of a good joke! (none of which I can post here). I was visiting my family in Maine when I got the call that he left us and I went into my room to cry and a family friend also visiting asked my Aunt why I was upset and she started to tell him about "Jimmy Midnight". I listened through the door and started to giggle. Needless to say, I pushed open the door and started laughing with them as we told the most fun and outrageous stories about "Midnight".
31 August 2005 - Miami Beach
Robin Deck
I met Jimmy when I moved to Key West l6 years ago. He had a meeting at his house for the "Keep Peary Court Green" activists. He saw every show I was in in Key West, and always swore that if he'd been my agent, I'd have been a star. I spent the last three months of his life with him and he made me feel like the luckiest girl in the world. The day he died he looked over at me and said,"how you doin' kiddo?"
31 August 2005 - Key West
Li Kern |
All of us at Hospice and Visiting Nurse Association will forever thank Jim for our beautiful headquarters in Key West. It was Jim (along with Pete Heslin) who recommended to Bob Crane, Trustee for Wally Watkins (a California resident and Key West visitor), that a significant portion of Mr. Watkins' estate be directed to Hospice of the Florida Keys. Our property is a tremendous asset - needless to say, very reassuring to any non-profit facing today's (and tomorrow's) challenges. Personally, I miss one of my favorite friends - remembering those wonderful evenings overlooking the ocean, Dickies almost nightly it seemed, crashing a Toppino party and the hilarious phone calls to Kathleen and me. Love and cheers to a great one--------------
31 August 2005 - Key West
Michael & Derek
Jim was the first , of so many, really good friends we had in Key West. He found our Margaret Street house for us and remained a true and very funny companion - he was always one of the first we contacted when we came to Key West and so many laughs then happened. We shall miss such a special person.
31 August 2005 - London UK
Carlos Rodriguez
Jimmy was a very special person he will be missed but never forgotten
30 August 2005 - Miami Beach
Margo Buckner
I just met Jimmy last year, but soon knew he was a special guy. Everybody who met him liked him. What a charming guy who lived his life his way. May we all be as lucky as our friend Jimmy.
30 August 2005 - Miami Beach
Angela Douglas
Jimmy, I salute you. So many people have been touched by your charm. When I think of you I see your smiling face. You lived life large. It was a pleasure to known you. Thanks Bill Yankee. Goodnight Midnight you a shinning star. You will be missed but never forgotten.
30 August 2005 - Naple Forida
Denis Dowen & Glenn Clayton
We got to know Jimmy as a result of our friendship with Dan Outerbridge. We became neighbours and lived in the building next door when we were visiting MIami. Jimmy's endless warmth, his jokes and sense of humour is something we will never forget. My daughter Gemma and her friend Emma loved Jimmy, in particular after he made them feel so special at a cocktail party he hosted last year. Best of all Jimmy was a pleasure to dine with, his wit and contribution to the conversation was always something to treasure. Jimmy we will miss you. Always
30 August 2005 - Hart, England and South Beach, Miami
Paco
I've laughed at your jokes and pranks throughout the years but isn't this a bit much? I'll miss you.
30 August 2005 - Tryon, North Carolina
Susan Perry
It is heartwarming, but not surprising, to read all the wonderful messages about my dear Uncle. My Grandmother's favorite words to the family were, "Jimmy's coming home". The preparations would begin - my grandmother baking her special deserts, my mother preparing his favorite meals, and the shopping for anything Jimmy might (or might not) need. I had the pleasure of visiting my Uncle Jimmy in early August, and told him that his trips home would become a Staten Island event. Typical Jimmy, he was surprised at how special he was to us. Well Nana, you get to utter your favorite words again...
30 August 2005 - Warwick, NY
BILL WRIGHT
Jimmy was one of the most wonderful people I have been lucky enough to know. No one had his zest for life, for his friends, for strangers that Jimmy had. His sense of humor and sense of fun were without equal. Just a brief phone chat with Jimmy was enough to turn my mood tfrom sour to upbeat .
He was also one of the world's great pranksters. The day after he died, I received a phone call from a quavery voice saying it was Count Von Cosel speaking from "northern Florida.". He had heard I was thinking of writing a book about Key West and he wanted to make sure I got his story right. I am certain it was Jimmy.
30 August 2005 - Pipersville, PA
lisacowen |
My dogs and I want to say goodbye-Jim welcomed us in his home when our house was under construction.We enjoyed living in his apartment on Atlantic Blvd.-he was a very special man.
30 August 2005 - Key West
Sally Lewis
Was saddened to learn of Jim's death. Must say he fought the good fight and did not want to die. He will be missed in this community and all that he did for us. His jokes and smile will always be remembered. Good bye old friend. I also send Joe Leahy's sympathy along with this message
30 August 2005 - Key West
Sophie Painchaud
Jim was a great inspiration. He was kind to all without exception. Always supportive of our work at the Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center he would with each new season call to ask which performances he should attend and I made a program for him. He particularly liked our dance series and always took the time to call or write a note to say .how marvelous it was.. Jim was the epitome of thoughtfulness.

I last saw Jimmy in New York City last April. The night before an .important appointment., he invited me to the Rainbow Room for cocktails and dinner. He looked particularly dashing in his Italian suit and yellow silk tie. Not once he let his worries show but was rather optimistic and as always was more concerned about my wellbeing than his own. He ordered a grand feast for us and was overjoyed by everything, especially the city lights and view. For me it was the light of this exquisite man who made the evening most special.

Aurevoir dearest Jimmy. You will be utterly missed.
30 August 2005 - Key West, New York
Mary Falconer
Jim was a great fixture in Key West, a great supporter of the arts. I will never forget his smile and laughter. A kiss from me to him was delivered by my friends Art and Richie last week. I have no idea where they left the lip print. Good night, Jimmy.
29 August 2005 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Art Poco |
When I grow up, I want to be like Jim. Here's to you, buddy, "always the best".
29 August 2005 - Florida
Jamie Alcroft |
A bright light of love and laughter has been extinguished in this world but shines even brighter somewhere beyond. When I used to perform at the Peir House (1978), Jim would commandeer his freinds and buddy Paul Lynde up to the Havana Docks to see me. He laughed at the same damn jokes time and again. You gotta' love the guy. A few weeks ago I called him with my best Sean Connerry Impression and I beleive I had him going for a while! He made me do my ' Lynde ' impression for old times sake and we laughed at length and vowed to see each other soon. Where ever he is and where ever I my go, I hope that proves to be true. Thanks Jim, for showing so many how to be so kind.
29 August 2005 - Westlake Village California
Joeseph Leahy
I have in my possession a book "The Art of Living" given to me August 28, 1963. Inscribed, "To Joe Leahy
who certainly learned the art of living, signed Jimmy McLernan. Jimmy learned the art of living, he was a great host and one of my best friends. I loved him like a big brother.
Joe
Also, twenty years ago Pete Hesslin gave me a small
staghorn fern. Everytime I moved it went with me, when I moved to Bayshore Manor it was so large it had
to be cut into two pieces, now I have each piece outside my window. I have Pete and Jimmy with me.
The Coach
29 August 2005 - Key West, Florida
Linda and Mike Mewshaw
We're stil in shock that Jim won't be able to keep our Sept. 12th date with him. Only a few days before 8/24 he wrote and offered to arrange a hotel room nearby. Alas, we'll miss his joy, energy, love and humor -- a big-hearted man who's been a major force in our lives for 32 years and who made the full moon over 1330 Atlantic shine more brightly. We'll miss you, Jim, but know your own light will shine on us forever.
29 August 2005 - London, England
Jane Langley
Jim and I met in the 60's, went to parties, political rallies, and had a lot of fun together. Over the years, we sometimes lost touch, but always managed to re-connect eventually and I looked forward always to seeing him when I was in Florida. I miss him already.
28 August 2005 - Pacific Palisades, California
(Capt.) Lynda Schuh
I loved Jimmy and this just breaks my heart. We served closely on the Last Stand Board together as he was Pres and I was VP. I missed him when he moved to Miami. There was no one else like him. He was so engaging and full of fire and he did everything with flair. I loved that he could shmooze with all the big names and then with the little and wacky names and he was totally at ease anywhere. I am honored to have shared a part of my life with him and I will miss him dearly. I still have his last email.
28 August 2005 - Key West
Susan Claassen |
I felt my friendship with Jimmy was a "perfect fit" - after all, it was my play on Edith Head that brought us together. He touched my heart deeply. The world has lost one of its shining lights.
28 August 2005 - Tucson
David
Thanks for the memories.
28 August 2005
Frederic E. Cole
Jim was always a man with a smile and gave so much happiness into others every day.
28 August 2005 - Sausalito, Ca.
Vincent Mancini
It is sad to lose such an old friend. I met Jim at his home, then on Caroline Street, in 1967 and watched his activity in the community until his death. May the blessing of heaven rest upon his soul.
28 August 2005 - Key West
Warren Benjamin
It's impossible to sum up in one phrase what Jim's friendship meant to me but how's "For A Good Time, Call Jim." Sure he was warm, smart, sensitive and supportive of so many great causes; from the arts to politics to the environment, Jim was always there when you needed him. But it was his love of a good time, whether on his balcony at 1330 or his many stories about his life in NY, LA, Chicago or around the world that made his the person we all loved. He will be remembered as the "48 year old Hollywood Producer" shooting the greatest movie of all time & living his dream. Never change Jim. We love you.
27 August 2005 - Key West
Dick DeNeut
Ever since those long ago days with Jim -- that was when it was Jim Jester and Peter Perfect -- I've had many occasions to be grateful for his bright presence in my life. I will remember the times shared in LA and Key West and, lately, on the internet -- and who of his friends could ever forget that smile, that laugh, that off-kilter humor or his generous spirit? Safe journey, Jim.
27 August 2005 - Los Angeles
Bob Doty
I was so sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. Although we have not seen too much of each other in recent years we have always stayed in touch and our friendship goes back over fifty years.. I considered him a good friend and he truly will be missed.
27 August 2005 - Palm Beach Gardens, Fl.
Duane Wessels
I owe more to Jimmy than I could ever thank him for. He introduced me to Otis in June of 1950 in NYC.
27 August 2005 - Key West
Otis Clements
I have PLENTY of marvelous tales to tell about Jimmy. After all, we met in New York when I was 21 and he 18....
27 August 2005 - Key West
George Murphy
The fading of Jimmy's laughter from this planet leaves all of us who loved him with the obligation to keep his memory alive with our own imitative acts of kindness, grace, generosity, and especially frivolity.
To the moon, Jimmy. Here's to the moon. And to you.
27 August 2005 - Key West
Robert Marrero
How blessed was I to have known this dazzling, charming jewel of a soul. Through my eyes, Jimmy always made the best of every circumstance. He was also such the prankster, always laughing and smiling and carrying on in the way that Jimmy would. In fact, whenever I find myself thinking of Jimmy, a great big smile explodes onto my face as I reflect on numerous enjoyable moments while in his company. Jimmy knew how to take pleasure in life; to enjoy life; this he taught me. I will always thank you for this Jimmy Midnight. I will always remember all the wonderful moments we spent together. Farewell my friend...I will miss you dearly....
27 August 2005 - Key West
Cindy McNeil |
I count myself extremely lucky to have spent even the shortest amount of time in Jimmy's presence. One smile from him felt like a thousand hugs. Rare, genuine, warm, generous, enormously charismatic (oh what an understatement!)... unforgettable. My heart goes out to all of you.
27 August 2005 - Toronto, Canada
Bob Thixton
I for one shall miss being able to call Jimmy and have one of our disguised voice conversations. He started it years ago with me and we had such fun! A rare individual -they don't come any better than Jimmy.
27 August 2005 - NY
Ken Ahonen
I met Jimmy through the Dean For America campaign. I will remember him as a person concerned for the less advantaged in our country.
27 August 2005 - Miami Beach
John J Young
No time for sadness, I say. Jimmy's energy got us all going one time or another. Wait'll I expose his wickedness on the "calles" (streets) of Havana. And I've got pics!!
27 August 2005 - South Carcinoma, USA
George Cooper
We loved Jimmy. What a guy. He loved everyone and everything and wanted to share it all. A rare, rare man whom we will miss in so many ways. Goodbye JIm, we'll remember you always.
27 August 2005 - Martha's Vineyard
Jane O'Reilly
So smart, so funny, so politically involved, so ebullient, so always glad to see me, so good and constant a friend. Ah, Jimmy McMulligan O'Leary McCahay....and all the other names you used to fool me over the telephone: "Miss O'Reilly, it's Dennis O'Sullivan here. i'm at the bus station in downtown Rutland, and I've heard you are very kind to recovering drunks and I'm just out of re-hab and someone I met in Key West, his name was Jimmy, said you would find me a place to stay". I almost was on my way to the car before I realized it was himself calling from Miami, that rascal Jimmy McLernan, and I had been suckered again. Thank you Jimmy for all the laughter and all the kindness. Please try to call, and pretend to be the Archangel.
27 August 2005 - Middletown Springs, Vermont
Honey Dobyns Anderson
Jimmy and I worked together for 8 years. Whenever I think of him I smile. Sometimes I laugh. He was incredibly funny. Time spent with him was a time well-spent, a celebration of life. The world is a better place because of him and I am so grateful to have known him.
27 August 2005 - Kenai, Alaska
Hugo Alvarado
It was a pleasure having assisted Mr. McLernan on his appointment at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Although I only spoke to him a couple of times over the phone, I felt he was a wonderful man and a great mentor to many. My respects and condolences to his family. May his soul rest in our Lord's grace.
26 August 2005 - Miami, FL
Richard Magesis
I met Jimmy in 1981 at the Red Barn Theatre in Key West. We had a drink and laughed alot. I shared a sunset at Jimmy's Miami Beach home last Saturday, August 20th. We had a drink and laughed alot. In twenty four years of drinks and laughs, I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone.
I miss you kiddo.
26 August 2005
Georgia Wilson
Jimmy, Thank you for being such a dear friend to my brother. I know that you have always been there for him even when we were not. I will be forever grateful for the love you shared with him. May you rest in peace.
25 August 2005 - orlando
Andy
He was such a sweet, upbeat guy, and so enormously fortunate to have friends like you two.
25 August 2005
Marc Fest |
It was Jimmy who walked up to my table at Square One restaurant in Key West in March 1994, to introduce himself, and then to introduce me to David. Just by being himself, friendly, inviting, confident, never afraid to talk to strangers, he changed our lives and those of so many others. Throughout the last almost 12 years, the three of us formed a .trio.. Jimmy loved that word, .trio.. It meant a lot to him. It meant that we were family. It meant that he was an equal part of our constellation. Now that he.s gone, it seems so much will be different. But his spirit will stay with us, and through that and through our memories the trio will live on. I'll miss you, Jimmy.
25 August 2005 - Miami Beach


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