James “Jim” McFadden passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 10, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Jim was born in Helena and raised in Boulder. Growing up, he was a dedicated student, a talented basketball player and a loyal friend to many. He was always willing to lend a hand with extra chores on the State Ranch, where his parents presided. One of Jim’s greatest pastimes was fishing in the hills of Little Boulder, a love he shared with his family, creating countless memories.
After graduating from high school, Jim worked for the Forest Service and attended Rocky Mountain College. In 1963, he joined the United States Navy, serving his country as a sonar man aboard the USS Swerve. He attained the rank of Second Class Petty Officer and completed his service in 1969. The family remembers many “slide nights,” when Jim would set up the projector and share story after story from his time in the Navy.
Upon returning home to Boulder, Jim briefly worked for the city before his brother-in-law Frank introduced him to the painting trade. It was here that Jim found his true passion. He had a remarkable gift for restoring life and beauty to anything he touched. This trade eventually lead to his employment with the State of Montana, where he worked until his body no longer enabled him to do so.
In 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Glorian Scherr. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home in the Helena Valley, where they raised their three children. In 2022, they relocated with their daughter to Bremen, Georgia, to be closer to their son and to enjoy a warmer climate.
Jim’s faith was strong and steadfast. He read his Bible daily, and even as dementia took hold, his Bible remained at his bedside.
Jim will be remembered most for his infectious laugh and unmistakable sense of humor. He loved “cutting up” with everyone he met. His practical jokes and relentless teasing were almost always appreciated and left lasting smiles. Thankfully, that playful spirit lives on in his children and several other family members.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Gwen McFadden, and his sisters, Bonnie Gruber and Beverly Heggie. He is survived by his loving wife, Glorian; his daughter, Julie Lackner, and grandchildren Jake, Jestine and Dane; his daughter, Shelly Billington (Kris), and grandchildren Raelee and Reagan; and his son, Shaun Healy-McFadden (Chris). He is also survived by many in-laws and dearly loved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of services, a private spreading of Jim’s ashes will take place this summer in Montana.
