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James Chiara Obituary
He was a graduate of Boys High Brooklyn and of Brooklyn College. He received an MA from Columbia University. He was a teacher of French and Spanish at Power Memorial Academy, Belleville High School and was chairman of the Foreign Language Department of Northern Valley Regional High School in Demarest. He was president of the New Jersey Foreign Language Teachers Association. He served during World War II in the U.S. Navy in the D-Day invasion at Normandy and became Commanding Officer of the LST 539 during his service in the Pacific. He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Ridgewood for 47 years and served as an usher.
He is survived by his wife, Josephine Filippone Chiara; his children, Pamela Singer of Ridgewood and Gregory and wife Ann; and his granddaughters, Stephanie Singer and Lea and Emily Chiara. He was predeceased by his brother, Harold.
A funeral Mass was celebrated on March 14 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Ridgewood, followed by interment at Christ The King Cemetery in Franklin Lakes.
Arrangements were by the Feeney Funeral Home in Ridgewood.
Memories and Condolences
for James Chiara
11 Entries
Joan Hartmann
March 6, 2023
Time passes so quickies. Jim a wonderful human being. Miss our working together. It was a sure pleasure.
Joan Hartmann
March 6, 2020
Miss this wonderful friend. Peace Jim.
Joan Hartmann
June 23, 2015
Had no idea that Jim had past. Jo I send my condolences. I have many fond memories working with you and Jim at all those events, especially at College Capers and you and Jim performing "I Remember it Well."
denise girardin-mattes
June 22, 2015
He was a wonderful French Teacher! Made learning the language fun, not only for me, but for others who had him for Spanish! He will be sorely missed. God Bless!!
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Gary Dorrell
March 21, 2011
Jo and Family,
So sorry to hear about Jim. You were great friends to my parents and I always enjoyed being in your company. I especially remember the trip we took together to Paris in 1984. Our first foray overseas. Who would have known at the time that I would then later get to live in Europe for 9 years. Take care always.
Gary/Paula and Bill Dorrell
March 21, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Chiara family. We will all remember JIm as the life of the party and the many good times on LBI hanging out with our parents, Bill and Harriet. The Dorrell kids - Matthews NC, Augusta GA and Boiling Springs PA.
james conroy
March 14, 2011
Dear JO, I am so sorry.I loved Jim and treasured you both as friends I am sorry I cant be with you now,but Helen and I have already talked about a celebration of Jim's perhaps at LBI when I return from Florida in June. God bless you. Love Jim
CT DPH Planning
March 14, 2011
To Gregory Chiara & Family
You have our deepest sympathy. May warm memories fill the emptiness you feel. For no one ever dies as long as we keep them in our hearts.
Your co-workers at DPH
Jim Lumley
March 12, 2011
I was saddened initially when I learned of Jim's passing. But then began to think of the fun times, especially on stage, that we had at NVRHS.
Jo and family, I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
john evans
March 12, 2011
Greg and Family, You had a good and learned man for a dad, and the great fortune to have him in your midst for 88 years. Loving thoughts to all of you from our whole family. Put your arms around each other and take good care of yourselves. Peace and Love, John Elena Ian Colin and Owen
Joan Hartmann
March 12, 2011
Jo and family,
So sorry about Jim. I have many fond memories working with Jim in extravaganzas at Mt. Carmel and with College Capers. I know that you will miss him. The life that you two had is the envy of every married couple.
Love, Joan
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