Christian James Columbia

Born in Jersey City on June 8, 1975 to the late Jane Columbia and John Reilly. Christian grew up and remained in Weehawken his entire life. He was a proud member of the Weehawken Football and Wrestling teams and honored to call himself a Weehawken Indian. During Christian’s lifetime he had many career paths and made lasting friendships wherever he went. Christian was knowledgeable in many topics and could converse with the best of them. He cherished his loving family and friendships that he made during his lifetime. Christian brightened everyone’s day whether it be a joke, a story or simply a conversation. He could be found outside his apartment any given day with his best friend and buddy Lucky and later his pal JoJo. He loved his dogs unconditionally.

Christian was blessed to have had two families in his life. He was raised primarily by his adored grandmother, Jane Dillon until her passing and then by his Aunt Jill and Aunt Judy and a village of family members including his Godfather Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Barbara.

Christian leaves behind his Aunt Jill Sheppard (Columbia) and husband Craig and cousins, Randy Wey and Craig Sheppard Jr., his Aunt Judy Columbia and her fiancé Bill, his Uncle Jimmy (JD) and many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins, especially Debby Hilton V and Allison Knol. He is predeceased by his Mother Jane Columbia, Grandmother Jane Dillon and Great Grandparents, Alvin and Florence Dillon and his loving dog Lucky.

Christian also had a loving relationship with his Father John Reilly and step-mother Ann Reilly. He was blessed to have his brother John Reilly in his life and took great pride in being a part of watching him grow up. He was so proud to be a big brother to John and his wife Stephanie and a loving Uncle to John “JJ” and Jackson Reilly. Christian also leaves behind his Uncle Michael Reilly and is predeceased by his Grandparents, John “Jack” and Paula Reilly.

Christian has accomplished many great things during his life time and was most proud to be an AA member and sponsor to his members. He always stepped up when called upon. He was also a huge New York Giants fan.

For those desiring, please consider a donation to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital or a local animal shelter in Christian’s memory.

A visitation for Christian will be held Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Leber Funeral Home, 2000 Kennedy Blvd, Union City, NJ 07087. The funeral Mass will be on Thursday, March 14, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Saint Lawrence Roman Catholic Church, 22 Hackensack Ave, Weehawken, NJ 07086. the entombment will follow at Madonna Mausoleum in Ft. Lee, NJ