Obituary of James J. Felicito, Jr

James John Felicito Jr., 85, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on August 8, surrounded by family. He was a man who measured his life not in accomplishments, but in relationships, and possessed an uncanny ability to connect with just about anyone. His warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others made every conversation feel like time well spent.

Born on February 16, 1941 in Jersey City, New Jersey, Jim grew up in North Bergen. After high school, he enlisted in the Air National Guard while attending night school at Fairleigh Dickinson University, graduating in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. He enjoyed a 25-year career with IBM before retiring early and opening his own travel agency, transitioning his love of world travel into a second career. 

Jim cherished summers spent at the Jersey Shore, crabbing and playing beach volleyball. He was an avid skier who spent winters carving up slopes all over the world. Combined with wrestling in college, tennis at the local racquet club, and coaching Little League for 20 years, sports played a huge part of his active lifestyle. When he wasn’t on the slopes, a court, or a field, Jim liked to relax playing poker and Blackjack, chess, or cheering for his beloved Yankees.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Nancy; sons Jim (Kathy) and Scott (Nikki); grandchildren Tori and Zach; brother Robert (Mary); nieces and nephews Rob (Vanessa), Donna (Andy), Jason (Ellen), James (Amanda), and Joseph; and cousins Jeffrey, Anthony, Thomas, Nancy, Betsy, Paula, and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Alice (nee D’Angelo) Felicito.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 2:00-5:00pm. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 17 at 10:00am, immediately followed by a burial at Somerset Hills Memorial Cemetery. 

Jim will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quick wit, mischievous grin, and the way he made everyone feel valued. His presence enriched the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will continue to do so for years to come. 

The family welcomes donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in memory of James Felicito.