James Patrick Jeffers

It is with deep sorrow and immense love that we announce the passing of James Patrick Jeffers of Wyckoff, NJ, formerly of West Babylon, Long Island, NY. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, James passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on September 12, 2025.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to Irish immigrant parents, Patrick Jeffers (County Mayo) and Mary Tully (County Galway), James grew up in a large family during the Great Depression. Raised by kind, hard-working parents, James embodied the values of diligence, doing unto others, humility, and quiet strength from an early age. Living out kindness on a daily basis was his second nature. He was a gentle humanitarian and was a fine example to us all.

It was on a blind date that Jim met the love of his life, Patricia, and together they built a beautiful life rooted in love, devotion, and shared dreams. Their early days were filled with cherished memories at Jacob Riis Park, where his love for the ocean began to blossom-a passion that would follow him throughout his life.

James and Patricia eventually settled on Long Island to raise their three young daughters-a decision that couldn't have been more ideal. It became their beloved home for 42 years. Family meant everything to Jim. As a devoted father and grandfather, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life: summer days at the beach with his girls, family ski trips to Killington, teaching his grandchildren to golf, boating on the Great South Bay, and the peace he found while sailing-the place where he felt most free.
Later in life, after the tragic loss of his son-in-law in the attacks of September 11th, James and Patricia moved from Long Island to Wyckoff, NJ, to support their daughter and help raise their two young grandchildren. His unwavering support, generosity, and boundless love carried his family through unimaginable grief and showed the depth of his strength and compassion.
A lifelong advocate for health and vitality, he remained dedicated to physical fitness- walking, weight training, and exercising daily until just recently. His commitment to staying active wasn't just a personal pursuit, it was a way of life. He was a proud member of his community's Activities Unlimited group, where he embraced new experiences with enthusiasm. One of his greatest passions was skiing, a love that endured through the decades, that he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He found great joy in chaperoning ski trips with local organizations, sharing his passion for the slopes and encouraging others to embrace the thrill and beauty of the mountains.
He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where his sense of duty, work ethic and discipline were lifelong hallmarks of his character. He took pride in his professional life as a dedicated civil engineer with NYS Dept. of Transportation and the role he played in shaping the communities around him.

James will be remembered not only for his longevity and vitality, but for his adventurous gentle spirit, and also for the countless ways he gave of himself-always kind, always steady, always putting others before himself. He had a huge heart and made those around him feel special. Whether sailing on the bay or simply sharing a quiet conversation, his presence brought peace and comfort to those lucky enough to know him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Patricia (Murphy); his three devoted daughters Eileen Jeffers, Maureen Raub, Debra Jeffers; his cherished grandchildren Rebecca and Liam Raub; a loving son-in-law Brian McMahon, sister Anne Trainor, brother Eugene Jeffers and beloved family dog, Brady.
A visitation will be held at St. Elizabeth's RC Church, 700 Wyckoff Ave, Wyckoff, NJ on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 9:45 AM till 10:30 AM followed by a funeral mass with Fr. Stephen Fichter officiating. Private burial arrangements at St. Charles Resurrection Cemetery, Long Island. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Tunnel to Towers or the Wounded Warrior Project, causes close to his heart.