James (“Jim”) Edward Friel III, 80 years young, passed away suddenly May 3. Jim was born Jan. 5, 1939 in Plainfield where he lived with his mother, father and sister Lynn. The Friels moved to Rumson in 1955.
Jim attended Mt. Saint Mary’s and graduated from Monmouth College in 1962. He met his beloved wife and best friend of 57 years, Ann Hinck Friel, while at Monmouth.
Jim is predeceased by his parents, James E. Friel Jr. and Margaret “Honey” Friel.
Surviving are his wife Ann and three daughters and their spouses: Kelly Schulz and her husband John; Catherine Lloyd Connolly and her husband Thomas, and Elizabeth Ann Finlay. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren whom he adored: Andrew and Matthew Schulz (who share their grandfather’s birthday); Daniel, Elizabeth and Thomas Lloyd; and Alexander and Michael Finlay. Jim is also survived by his sister Lynn Powers and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was a devoted Catholic and a daily communicant of St. Anthony of Padua in Red Bank. He was a long-standing member of Monmouth Beach Bath & Tennis Club (1957) where he enjoyed playing tennis every Saturday morning with his favorite group of friends. He loved holding court on the beach with his family and friends, as well as watching his favorite team, the Fighting Irish. The Brooklyn Dodgers had a special place in his heart as well, since Jim and his father were regulars at the games.
Jim was a man of many traits, sayings and advice. But most of all he was a loving brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He loved his family and truly enjoyed his one-on-one time with each of them. His wisdom, practicality, common sense and sense of humor will be sorely missed.
A gathering was held May 16 followed by a Mass at The Church of the Nativity, 180 Ridge Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704. In honor of Jim’s memory, donations may be made to Saint Philip Nieri Oratory at St. Anthony’s of Padua, 121 Bridge Ave., Red Bank, NJ 07701.
At ease, 10-4, keep it together, over and out…
