James W. Avery, 58, of Spring Lake Heights, passed away on Monday, September 24, 2018.
Jim was born in Glen Ridge to the late Charles C. and Margaret (Beebe) Avery. He spent his early years in Closter. His family then moved to Normandy Beach, where he resided for many years before moving to Spring Lake Heights in 1986. He was a graduate of Brick High School and Nasson College. He had a very successful career in the financial industry, having worked for Merrill Lynch for over 20 years before becoming self-employed in commercial lending. Jimmy’s passion for the water, fishing and boating goes back to his childhood days growing up in his beloved Normandy Beach home. We will forever miss his larger-than-life personality, wicked sense of humor and phenomenal cooking skills. He joyously embraced everyone and everything in his life. The essence of Jimmy was his unconditional love and devotion to his family, and his deep faith and love for Jesus Christ.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Colleen (Grady) Avery. He is also survived by his daughters, Leigh Avery, Allison Fay and Cheryl Fay. Also surviving are Jim’s brother and sister-in-law, Charlie and Sue Avery, his sister-in-law, Cheryl Jeffries, and his former spouse and the mother of his daughter, Linda Avery. He is also survived by his nieces, nephews and many friends along with his dog, Mickey, and grand-pup, Tiger.
Visitation will take place at O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy. 35, Wall, on Friday, September 28, 2018, from 3:00-6:30 PM, with a service to follow at 6:30 PM. Cremation will take place privately. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jimmy’s memory may be made to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, at www.fca.org. Condolences may be sent via www.obrienfuneralhome.com.