James Paul Laurita

Born to James M. Laurita and Ann S. DeMassi, he grew up in Lyndhurst, NJ, before building his life and legacy in Livingston.

James P. Laurita, 82, of Livingston, NJ, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. To his children, he was the truest source of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. They loved him just as deeply in return—and will carry his memory with them every day.

He attended Lyndhurst High School and later earned his master’s degree from Rutgers University. James went on to spend many years at Organon/AxzoNobel, where he led the credit department. Colleagues remember him as a steady, compassionate leader—smart, fair, and unfailingly kind—qualities that defined him both at work and at home.

If you met Jim Laurita, chances are he greeted you with a grin and a warmth that made strangers feel instantly at home. For more than two decades, he stood behind the plate as Chief Umpire for Livingston Little League. His calls could be emphatic—sometimes even over the top—but for Jim, it was about setting an example. He believed every call should show kids and fellow umpires what it meant to care about the game, the community, and doing things the right way. What mattered most to him wasn’t the score—it was the kids, the parents, the friendships. The ballfield was his second home, a place he fiercely protected as a hub where everyone belonged. He loved building kids’ confidence and followed his friends’ children through their sports years, long after Little League and well into high school and beyond. Summers brought him joy in following tournament season all the way to Williamsport, while weekends were often spent at the Livingston Diner, where the time with friends was every bit as important as the food.

Jim also loved adventure—jetting off to Hawaii, cruising the Caribbean, or road-tripping to Maine just to stock up at LL Bean. In earlier years, Lake Placid was a favorite escape, filled with memories he often revisited. But for Jim, it was never really about the destination. It was about the company at his side, the stories shared along the way, and the laughter that seemed to follow him everywhere.

His daughter-in-law Julia remembers him best this way: “He greeted me with open arms and made me feel like family from the very first moment. He was pure-hearted and thoughtful…” That spirit—of making others feel seen, loved, and valued—was Jim’s true legacy.

He was a man who laughed easily, loved fiercely, and lived generously. Bananas, ballfields, and big-heartedness—he found joy in them all.

Jim proudly served in the Air Force Reserves. Above all, he treasured his family. He was the devoted father of Anne Marie, Jimmy, and the late Tommy Laurita, who passed away just weeks before him. He is also survived by his grandson Luke, son-in-law Jeff, daughter-in-law Julia, and granddaughter Jordan, along with his beloved cousins George, Billy, Ralph, and John. He is remembered fondly by dear friends John, Janet, Pat, Skip, and Roslyn, as well as countless others whose lives he brightened along the way.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Tuesday, October 7 from 9:30-11:30am at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, Livingston. Funeral Mass will follow at 12 noon at St. Philomena's Church, Livingston.

Jim will be remembered not only for the years he lived, but for the love, laughter, and light he gave so freely to others. His presence was a gift; his memory will always be a blessing.