Stephen James "Jim" Donnelly (1933–1981) was born in Edmonton. In October 1951 he received his primary qualification as a chartered accountant, in October 1954 received his intermediate qulifiation, and in October 1955 received his final qualification. At this time this house was built, he worked for Plaza Oil and Gas as its secretary treasurer. He later returned to Edmonton.

On 7 March 1953, Donnelly married Doreen Elizabeth Wood (1932–1980) at McDougall United in Edmonton. They had a son and a daughter. James died on 25 March 1981 at age 48.