David James “Jim” Dooling of Fair Haven passed away Feb. 21, 2023, at the age of 81. Jim was predeceased by his parents, H. David Dooling and Elanor (Devine) Dooling.
Jim is survived by his wife Carol (Day) whom he shared a marriage with for 57 years, with “never a cross word,” as Jim would say. He is also survived by his daughter Jessica and took much pride and love in her. His love of family was evident throughout his life and he always took the time to attend family events.
Jim is also survived by his brother John Dooling and his wife Pamela of East Syracuse, New York, Betty Ann Stark of DeWitt, New York, and Katie Cusick of Syracuse, New York; a niece and seven nephews; 15 great-nieces and nephews; several cousins; and may other dear family members and friends.
Jim was born in Syracuse, New York, and attended St. John the Evangelist High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from St. Bernard’s in Rochester, New York. Jim earned his master’s and doctorate degrees in experimental psychology from SUNY Buffalo.
He taught at Kent State University from 1969-1976. Jim went on to Bell Laboratories and relocated his family to New Jersey, settling in Fair Haven. He worked at Bell Laboratories from 1976 until retirement in 1993. In retirement Jim was an adjunct professor at Kean University.
Jim’s family and friends miss his charismatic personality, his varied interests, and his generous spirit. He was a spectacular storyteller, kind, generous and loved laughing – which always started with a distinct “whoop.” Jim had a wonderful sense of humor and a genuine interest in people, always being present when in your company. He always loved an audience and his driving tours of New York City and New Jersey were legendary, as factual as they were entertaining. He was passionate about Broadway, opera, movies and travel.
A memorial gathering will be held at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank at a later date.
The article originally appeared in the March 9 – 15, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
