James P. Barry, a Washington Township, NJ resident, was peacefully called home to Heaven on August 7, 2024. Born the eldest child of Rita (nee Corcoran) and James J. Barry in the Bronx, NY in 1954, and later moved to Bergen County N.J.
A dedicated educator, James earned his B.S. from William Paterson College and his M.S.Ed. along with multiple advanced degrees and certifications in psychology and counseling, from Fordham University. Answering God’s call to the religious vocation he felt as a young man, James pledged his life as a Tertiary to become a lay member of a Catholic Third Order.
All who knew James will remember him for his unwavering devotion to his family, his church, his students, and elderly patients in his spiritual care. He was cherished for his quick-witted humor, impeccable memory, and his delightful enthusiasm for traveling the world.
James began his teaching career at The Epiphany Catholic School in Cliffside Park, NJ, and later returned as the school principal until its closure in 2004. As a trained psychologist, he served as a guidance counselor to the students at Immaculate Heart Academy High School in Washington Township, NJ. For the past 20 years, he served as an Educator and Spiritual Counselor at PeaceCare St. Ann’s and St. Joseph’s in Jersey City, where he was often the last person to hold their hands and pray with the young and elderly patients he loved.
James was predeceased by his parents, Rita and James, and his beloved little sister, Eileen Frances. He is survived by his sister, Rita Barry-Corke, her husband Mark Corke, and nephew Sam; his brother, Wayne Barry, his wife Regina Barry, and niece Danielle Eileen. He is also survived by many cherished cousins.
Funeral services have been arranged at Pizzi Funeral Home in Northvale, NJ. Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 688 Ridgewood Road in Washington Township, Bergen County on Tuesday, August 27 at 11:00 am. In remembrance of James, the family requests any memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
You will forever be missed Jimmy.
I’ll miss you Jim
There’s a big void at PeaceCare St. Ann’s Chapel. No one could take your place with the love and care put into your ministry. You are missed. You were always a kind soul, and dear friend. my heartfelt condolences to your family and friends.