John William Groome Jr.

Born on March 15, 1930, in Paris, France, to John William Sr. and Elsie (Remmele) Groome, John spent his formative years in Newark, NJ. He graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School, where he was honored as “Most Studious.” His academic journey continued at Seton Hall University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree and later earned Master of Arts degrees in History and English. In 1952, John was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. He served proudly, believing that his military experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for people from all walks of life. Following his service, John embarked on a fulfilling career in education that spanned over four decades. He began teaching History and English at Vailsburg High School in Newark before concluding his career as Dean of Guidance at Summit High School in Summit, NJ.

Family, faith, and friendship were the cornerstones of John’s life. He cherished the close bonds with his many cousins and fondly recalled family gatherings in Newark and at Lake Hopatcong. It was at Lake Hopatcong that he met the love of his life, Marilyn Emma Cleffi. They married in 1956 and raised three daughters in Livingston, NJ. John was an active member of St. Philomena Parish for over 40 years, serving as a lector, member of the men’s ministry and deeply engaging with his community. He was also involved with the Knights of Columbus, the VFW, and the Livingston Old Guard. An avid reader and writer with a passion for history, John was known for his captivating storytelling and love for card games—especially bridge and Zioncheck—which he eagerly taught to anyone gathered around the family dinner table, particularly his grandchildren.

For over 60 years, John and Marilyn enjoyed summers on Long Beach Island with their children, grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends. They also embraced travel during their retirement years. Marilyn preceded John in death after 66 wonderful years of marriage. John was truly a “Prince of a Man.” Charismatic and handsome, he was also kind-hearted, honest, thoughtful, respectful, and a friend to all who knew him.

A remarkable role model, he is survived by his three daughters: Therese (Tom) Patterson, Anne LaBrie, and Mary Beth Groome (Earl Swenor); eight grandchildren: Kristen (Brendan) Maguire, Danielle Patterson, Tommy Patterson, Kevin (Bethany) Murray, Dylan Murray, Olivia LaBrie, Tony Di Iorio, Nick Di Iorio; a great-grandson Liam Maguire; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 11AM at St. Philomena Roman Catholic Church in Livingston, NJ, followed by a Committal at Gate of Heaven Cemetery & Mausoleum in East Hanover, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to his beloved Seton Hall Preparatory School in West Orange, NJ.