Obituary of James P. Wilkinson
James Patrick ("Willy") Wilkinson passed away peacefully with his wife Debbie holding his hand, while his beloved dog lay on his chest protecting him.
He had a short battle with a rare and aggressive brain tumor. During the 20 days he was sick, he still told everyone “he was doing better than he deserved” A modest statement that he always said. But in reality, he really deserved only the absolute best.
He was born in Irvington, NJ, grew up in Avenel, moved to Parsippany and finally settled down in Rockaway, NJ
He graduated with an AS degree from Middlesex County College, a BA degree from Kean University and a NJ teaching certificate in Art.
Willy aka Jim, spent his life helping others. He worked for Exxon office systems, then Smith’s Industries, ITT, Exelis and then L3 Harris Aerospace as a Data Manager for his full time career. He also had a part time job at Home Depot and absolutely loved doing the “Kids Workshop”
He has a long list of accomplishments. He was a previous member of The Contact Hotline helping suicidal people. He volunteered as Security for the CODA Jazz Festival for many years. He attended Church his entire life and was good friends with his minister Don Bragg. He donated gallons of blood over the years, he had a part time job with the NJ Forest Fire Service, he actively volunteered with the Denville Emergency Response Team and he was a Mason with The Masonic Lodge in Mountain Lakes #1 and the Livingston Lodge.
Willy was predeceased by his father Leroy, his mother Stella, his brother Bobby and his father-in-law John.
He leaves behind his wife Debbie, his niece Gemma, his brother-in-law Chris, his brother-in-law David and his family Aris, Federico and Armando, his mother-law Lorena, his aunt-in-law Lynn and his beloved rescue dog, Bella Skye Von Longbody.
Willy had hundreds of very good friends from all of his jobs, his church, his life long best friends “The Wall Boys” and his neighbors. He was truly loved by all.
He loved everyone and made people smile wherever he went. He was known for his amazing artwork, his Christmas cards and especially his daily homemade tie tacks depicting whatever the date represented. Whenever he went shopping, he always thought of others and bought gifts for them just because.
His annual Birthday gift to himself every year was to go to the Jersey shore and spend the day relaxing.
He loved all animals, his guitar collection and favored Fender guitars. He loved the Beatles, especially George Harrison, loved the original Volkswagen beetles and had a special love of his first owned yellow VW bug that he painted the sky on the inside roof and painted a piano keyboard on the dashboard. He was always proud of his organic gardening following in the footsteps of his father. He was a beekeeper and had vast knowledge of the music of the 60’s and 70’s.
He will be deeply missed and there are not enough good words to describe this sweet man with his big heart. A service will be held after the holidays and will be announced at a later date.
Your comments about Willy/Jim will be appreciated and donations to your favorite charity in his name will be cherished.
Arrangements were under the care of Dangler Funeral Home, Morris Plains, NJ.