Born on February 13, 1954, Jim was a lifelong resident of Sussex County, where he built a full life with his wife Amy.
To know Jim was to know a man who truly enjoyed life. He was most at home in nature; whether hunting through the woods of Sussex County with friends from his gun clubs, casting a line on Lake Lenape, or playing a round of golf at the Newton Country Club, where he proudly earned the Senior Championship Award. Beyond the outdoors, Jim had a passion for IndyCar racing; he never missed a chance to catch a race and share his enthusiasm.
But what Jim loved most was his friends and family. He had a gift for making people feel special and remembered. Whether through a thoughtful phone call or a simple check-in, Jim had a remarkable presence of mind to stay connected with the people he loved. His warmth and humor touched everyone who knew him, and he leaves us with memories we'll cherish forever.
Jim leaves behind his beloved wife, Amy Passafaro; his sons, James Passafaro (Chantelle) and Robert Passafaro (Mary Kate); his nephew, Greg Funari; and his niece, Melissa Ryder. He was predeceased by his sister, Andrea Funari, and joins her now in eternal rest.
A Memorial Visitation for Jim will take place on Sunday, October 12th from 1pm-3pm and from 5pm-7pm at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High St, Newton, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Tuesday, October 14 at the Good Shepherd RC Church, 48 Tranquility Rd, Andover, NJ.
