James J. Breslin III.

Obituary of James J. Breslin, III.

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James J. Breslin, III "Jay", 57, of Columbus, NJ, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at his home. Jay was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend and colleague who will be deeply missed.

Born in Trenton, NJ, he was a former resident of Hamilton, before moving to Columbus. He graduated from Nottingham High School, Villanova University and Villanova Law School. Jay was a successful attorney with over 30 years experience as a trial attorney. He started his career as a Law Clerk to the Honorable Judith A. Yaskin, J.S.C, then practiced with many skilled colleagues in Burlington, Camden and Mercer counties. Currently, he was Of Counsel in the General Liability Group of Cipriani & Werner in Mt. Laurel, NJ. Jay was a consummate professional who respected the legal field and its formal traditions, enjoyed the challenges presented and truly represented his clients' interests to the highest level.

Jay was actively engaged in civic and professional organizations earlier in his career as a member of the Hamilton Township Board of Rent Control, member of the Mercer County Bar Association, member of Justice Brennan Inn of Court and Board Vice President of Child Care Connection. He was a former member of the Trenton St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee and is a member of the Trenton AOH Msgr. Crean Div. #1 in Hamilton.

However, Jay's true joy was his family. As his sons grew up, his primary focus was spending time with them and supporting their interests. He volunteered as a recreational youth sports coach for Mansfield Township. He was a booster club volunteer supporting his sons' recreational, high school and club teams over the years, such as wrestling, lacrosse, baseball, soccer and football. He taught them what it means to be "gentlemen" and "good sports."

When he had time, he liked to fish and would enjoy a round of golf. He didn't think he had the best skills on the course, but he was happy to socialize and end up at the 19th hole! Jay enjoyed spending summers at the shore in Sea Isle City and treasured the memories of special trips to Ireland and Disney World with Kathleen and the boys. He had wonderful friends and looked forward to the annual Crabfest and Seafood on Surry celebrations that had become fun traditions.

Jay is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Kathleen C. Breslin, and their two sons, James J. Breslin IV "J.J." and Thomas M. Breslin. He is also survived by his devoted mother, Jill Breslin, and his sister, Christine Schmidt. He was a cherished brother-in-law to Christine and Patrick Murray and a loving uncle to their daughters, Catherine and Erin Murray. He will be fondly remembered by his uncle and aunt, Bernard and Barbara Campbell, and by his many loving cousins, friends, and colleagues. Jay was preceded in death by his father, James J. Breslin, Jr., and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Thomas and Joan Castagna.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 11:00AM at St. Vincent dePaul Church 555 Yardville-Allentown Road, Yardville, NJ 08620.

Interment will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

The visitation for Jay will be held on Wednesday afternoon from 4-7PM at Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors, 650 Lawrence Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.

In lieu of flowers, the family strongly suggests that donations be made to your choice of the following:

The Child Care Connection, Inc., 1001 Spruce Street, Suite 201, Trenton, NJ 08638-3957, or click here to make a donation now.

The "Durand Foundation" at Durand, Inc. | 304 Birchfield Drive | Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Or use our convenient Online Portal here.

Mansfield Township Recreational Youth Sports, Mansfield Township, 3135 Route 206 South, Suite 1, Columbus, NJ 08022