James J. Vasselli, Jr.

James "Jim" Joseph Vasselli, 85, of Little Egg Harbor Township, N.J. passed away peacefully at his home on August 30, 2021. Jim was born on February 4, 1936 in Newark, N.J. to James and Marie Vasselli. He is survived by his three sons James, Robert, Michael and his wife Loreen, his sister Connie, and his grandchildren, Michael and Matthew. He is preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Carol, and his brother Joseph, who passed in 2021.

Jim graduated from Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School at Newark, N.J. in 1954, and then from Montclair State University in 1958, where he majored and minored in science. Jim received a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Seton Hall University in 1964.

While in his Junior year at Montclair, Jim met the love of his life, Carol Figurelli, a student at Kean University, on a blind date arranged by a family friend. They married on July 6, 1963.

In the fall of 1958, Jim began his teaching career as a science teacher at Broadway Junior High School in Newark, N.J. He subsequently became the science department chair, the Vice Principal, and the Principal, all at Broadway Junior High School. Over the years, Jim became known for positively transforming schools, and was assigned as Principal at various schools in the Newark school system.

Jim and Carol lived in a few locations in New Jersey over the years, including Elizabeth, Newark, and Fairfield. They also lived in Ocean View Delaware after retirement, and returned to New Jersey at Little Egg Harbor in 2017.

Jim was highly regarded by his colleagues for his dedicated and disciplined approach to education throughout his career. Among his hobbies were classic cars, and he was a member of the Ford Classic Car Club in the 1970’s. He loved music, and became the choir director at St. Thomas More Church in Fairfield in the early 1980’s. Jim often fondly remembered the summers he worked at Sampler Inn Cafeteria in Ocean Grove, N.J. during his high school and college years. Later in life, he enjoyed playing bridge with friends and spending time teaching his grandchildren new and interesting things. He was always loved by family for his caring, wisdom, and endless support.

A memorial visitation for James will be held Saturday, September 4, 2021 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, 26 Mule Road, Toms River, NJ 08755. A memorial service will take place at 4:30 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Vasselli family by visiting www.Quinn-HoppingFH.com.