Jim Boyd

James "Jim" Gray Boyd, 88, of Watchung passed away peacefully on May 21 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Jim was born on December 16, 1934 in Philadelphia, PA to James and Elspeth (Mossop) Boyd. He spent most of his childhood on Staten Island, NY and graduated from Stuyvesant High School where he ran track and cross-country. Later he earned his B.S. degree from Rutgers University and earned his Professional Engineering license. Before retiring in 2006, Jim worked at the engineering firms of Dewberry (formerly Goodkind & O'Dea, Inc.) and WSP (formerly Parsons, Brinkerhoff, Inc.). While at WSP, he became an officer and founded a nation-wide computer users' group that developed engineering software.
In his twenties, Jim served in the Army Reserve and later found ways to serve others in his local community. He was an Assitant Scout Master for Boy Scout Troop 130 in Scotch Plains, where he lived for 33 years. After moving to Watchung in 1993, Jim joined the town Planning Board and was later named Vice Chairman.
On a personal level, Jim always found new ways to challenge himself and explore his interests. He was an avid runner and completed the NYC Marathon in 1981 and 1982. Once retired, Jim joined the Summit Old Guard where he designed and co-hosted computer workshops for members. In his free time Jim enjoyed playing bridge weekly with fellow Old Guard members, reading, learning about all things science, and traveling with his wife "Bobbie." Jim will be remembered for his intellectual curiosity, good nature, generous spirit, and kind heart.
Jim will be greatly missed by his devoted wife Barbara "Bobbie" (Sohn) of 65 years, his daughter Traecy Hobson (Mark) of Westfield, NJ, sons Glenn (Karen) of Clinton, NJ and Eric (Julie) of New London, PA, and nine grandchildren Kevin (Jin), Jillian, Ryan, Kyle, Tyler, Lexie, Lauren, Kelsey, and Grant. His parents James and Elspeth, brother John, and sister Beverly predeceased him.
The visitation will be at Memorial Funeral Home, 155 South Ave Fanwood, NJ 07023 from 930am to 11am on Friday, May 26th with a service beginning at 11am. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity.