James R Dondero

James Robert Dondero born July 11, 1948, age 77, died on Saturday January 31, 2026, after courageously battling colon cancer for 3 years. Throughout those years. he was continuously surrounded by love, support, and prayers by all who loved him.

Jim was born and raised in Jersey City, attending St. Peter’s Preparatory and St. Peter’s College. It was here that he met his wife Cathy, and they were married at St. Peter’s Chapel on March 25, 1972.

His leadership skills began when he was president of his college class, and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, following a master’s degree in guidance. He used these degrees throughout his life, teaching at St. Joseph’s of the Palisades and St. Peter’s Preparatory. It is here, that Jim made forever friendships with his students and colleagues that became his extended family.

As a guidance counselor at St. Peter’s Prep for 30+ years, Jim helped so many students with college placement to everyday struggles. Jim also became involved with the school’s theater department and incredibly directed 18 musicals and 9 dramas.

Jim’s avid love of music was always a huge part of his life. The Motown sound was his favorite, making him get up and dance every time, especially to Martha and the Vandella’s.

Jim was truly a man for others, bestowing so much love and wisdom of a lifetime to everyone he knew. This wisdom and this love were his legacies, and will be carried in our hearts forever.

Jim is survived by his loved ones, wife Catherine Dondero, his daughter Lisa Burke and husband Brian Burke, his son, Peter James, ne’e Mark Dondero, granddaughters Kira and Brenna Burke, family members Bhima Gaddy and wife Allison Gaddy, and son Baldwin Gaddy, and cousins Alice Androsiglio and Victoria Moran. He was also the cherished friend of Barbara Dondero.

Jim’s life celebration will include visiting on Thursday, February 5th from 4-8pm at Mack Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Rd. Secaucus. NJ. The funeral service with be held on Friday, February 6th at 9:30am at Immaculate Conception Church, 1219 Paterson Plank Rd. Secaucus, NJ. Following the memorial mass, Jim will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery, at 11:15am on at 340 Ridge Rd, North Arlington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Peter's Prep, located at 144 Grand St, Jersey City, New Jersey 07302. More information is available at spprep.org.