James E. Behne, affectionately known as Jimmy to his family and friends, passed away Nov. 11, 2025, in Middletown at the age of 57. He was born Sept. 7, 1968, in Manhattan.
Jimmy was a man with a great sense of humor and a heart of gold. His heart was as deep as the ocean he avidly fished in. His passion for being on the water was no doubt his serenity.
He took pride in being a fisherman, but more importantly, the pride and joy of his life were and will forever be his sons. His love for family and friends was clearly evident to all who were a part of his life.
Jimmy is survived by his two sons, Vincent Behne and Joseph Major (Jessica); his sisters, Lori Marie Rodriguez, Amanda, and Lindsay Ruiz; his brother, Matthew Ruiz; and his nephews, Christopher Wirta (Jennifer), Anthony and Andrew Rodriguez. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins who will all very much miss his larger-than-life presence.
Jimmy was predeceased by his mother, Deborah Purgar, and “Pop” Joseph Purgar; he now joins them and other close family members who have passed on in eternal peace.
Jimmy will be greatly missed not only by his family but by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A visitation was held Nov. 16 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, Belford. A service concluded the afternoon, and a private cremation followed.
The article originally appeared in the November 27 – December 3, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
