James “Jim” Francis Dorment Jr., of Rumson and Red Bank, died peacefully in his sleep at Riverview Medical Center on November 4. A longtime lawyer, passionate art collector, beloved husband, father, brother and friend, he was 85 years old. Born in New York, New York, on September 26, 1932 to James and Marguerite Dorment, he attended the Canterbury School, class of 1950, Notre Dame University, class of 1954, and Fordham University Law school, class of 1957.
Jim began his legal career in public service, spending two years as a clerk for the New Jersey Supreme Court and three years as counsel to the Governor of New Jersey. He served on various government commissions and committees, including the Supreme Court Committee on Character and Fitness and the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Professional Ethics. He was also a writer and editor of the New Jersey Law Journal. In 1968, he entered private practice as a partner with the Jersey City law firm Schumann, Hession, Kennelly & Dorment, and for nearly two decades (eventually as senior partner), he served his clients with unwavering integrity and commitment.
After retiring from practicing law in 1985, Jim devoted his time and energy to his collection of modern and contemporary art. He worked tirelessly to discover and cultivate emerging artists, and the paintings, photographs and sculptures that filled his home grew to include works by Henri Matisse, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Cindy Sherman, John Currin, Christopher Wool, Joseph Cornell, Richard Diebenkorn, Elizabeth Peyton and many others.
In addition to art, Jim loved rich and decadent food, good books, loud music, funny movies, strong margaritas, Notre Dame Football, The New York Times, air conditioning, television, two terrible Maltese named Henry and Clementine and having his family all under one roof.
Jim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Maureen; his five children, Lisa, James (Jaime), Maura (Andrew Sieghart), Geoffrey (Jill) and Richard (Genny); as well as 11 much beloved grandchildren. They will all miss him dearly.
Jim was a devout Catholic who loved his church and championed its works of charity and social justice. Memorial donations may be made in his name to Christian Brothers Academy, 850 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, NJ 07738.
