Claude J. Havens, Jr.

Claude Joel Havens Jr., known as CJ, left this world on November 21, 2023, at the age 88. "One has only so much time in this world, so devote it to the work and the people most important to you." is a quote by Louis L'Amour, a favorite author of CJ and a philosophy by which CJ lived.

CJ was born to Claude and Agnes Havens on November 22, 1934, in Oklahoma. The family moved to California during "Dust Bowl" then to a farm in Arkansas where CJ grew up with his three younger brothers and rode his horse to a one-room schoolhouse (uphill both ways). After graduating valedictorian, CJ proudly enlisted in the US Army and was offered paratrooper school, which he accepted and which helped to define the man he would become. He achieved the rank of Sergeant with the 82nd Airborne. He married the love of his life, Mary-Ellen, and they had four children. CJ taught his children to ride a horse, respect others, love their country, and to sing the gory paratrooper hymn, "Blood on the Risers" (which amused the family, for disciplined and courteous CJ seldom uttered profanity.)

CJ and Mary-Ellen worked hard to send their children to St. Joseph's Catholic School in New Jersey, where the family finally settled. CJ transferred from military service to a civilian position with the Department of Defense to continue serving the country he loved. He commuted to Fort Monmouth for 16+ years, never missing a day of work, and giving his family a place to call home in Island Heights. He also donated time to the community, taking on the Scoutmaster role for the Boy Scouts and helping three young men become Eagle Scouts. In later years, CJ became an indulgent Grandfather who shared laughs, desserts, gifts, and excursions with his grandchildren.

CJ never said an unkind word about anyone, nor did anyone criticize him beyond jokes about his cooking and dancing. He will dearly be missed but his surviving family: Brother Leslie and his wife Sue, Brother-in-Law David, Sister-in-Laws Bonnie and Betty, Sons Joel and Mark, Daughter Sylvia , Eight Grandchildren, Five Great-Grandchildren and cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. He has been warmly greeted in Heaven by his wife Mary-Ellen, daughter Sharron, beloved family and faithful pets.

There will be a Memorial Service followed by a reception on December 9, 2023, at The Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home (26 Mule Road, Toms River, NJ 08755) from 4-7 PM to celebrate the inspiring life of the generous and courageous CJ Havens.

"He Ain't Gonna Jump No More" but his positive influence will soar forever in the hearts of all those he touched!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital or Operation Smile, two charities CJ and Mary-Ellen supported for decades.