James "Al" Allan McIlraith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Allan “Al” Evan McIlraith at the age of 93, on June 13, 2026, at Creekside Long Term Care in Sarasota, Florida. He was a proud veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Al will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 70 years Phyllis and his sister Oryce Shantz (nee McIlraith). Beloved father to Penny McIlraith, Jon McIlraith (Lynne), Darla Musson (Charlie) and JoAnn Orpen (Jerry). Beloved granddad to Drew Musson (Valerie), Stephanie Spees, Christy Spees, Tiana Musson (Jeremy), Peter Baumann, Nathan Spees, Chelsea Young (Grant) and John Baumann (Sarah). Great granddad to Jaden, Emrick, Rowen and Lucy.

Al was born January 6, 1933, in Lanark Township, Ontario, Canada to parents Evan and Caroline (Proven) McIlraith. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1952 and served for 15 years with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. He served on 431 Squadron, Bagotville, Quebec; was a pilot on F-86’s – aerobatic team; served on 441 Squadron in North Luffenham, England; Zweibrucken, Germany; and Marville, France.

He married Phyllis Edna Peryer on October 1, 1955, in Marville, France. After leaving the RCAF, he became a pilot for United Air Lines and moved his family to the United States. Al and Phyll lived in Schaumburg Illinois for many years prior to moving to Sarasota, Florida. He retired from United Airlines after 27 years.

Al enjoyed playing tennis and golf into his 80’s and was known for his quiet humor and intellect. He was proud of his Scottish heritage and participated for many years in the Sarasota Highland Games. He was also President of the Caledonian Club 2013 - 2015 and Director 2017 - 2020.

Funeral Service will be at Robert Toale and Sons, Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL at 11 AM on July 1st, with lunch to follow. Friends and family welcome!