James J. Bockin, Sr.

James J. Bockin, Sr., 87, of Barnegat, New Jersey and Hobe Sound, Florida, passed on November 30, 2025. Born and raised on a family farm in Yardley, Pennsylvania, he attended Pennsbury High School where he excelled on the wrestling team, having been undefeated in his high school career at 155 lbs.  He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1955 to 1964 and was proud to achieve #1 out of his basic training class of 79 recruits.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for 69 years, earned his Fourth Degree and joined St. Mary’s Parish in Barnegat in 1974.

Retired as a carpenter, he had a thirst for knowledge and a passion for traveling.  He drove to 48 of the 50 contiguous United States to visit historical sites, horse tracks and sports stadiums, and enjoyed many cruises. He was an avid card player, trivia enthusiast and treasured spending time with his family.

James was predeceased by his dear wife (Jeannine) and is survived by his four children, James, Jr., Joseph (Kimberly), John (Janice) and Jeannine (Vincent).  He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Katelyn (Pierrot), James, III (Kerri), Amber, Annalise, Joseph, Jr., Eric, Vincent, Jr., Nicholas and Dominic; one great granddaughter, Cassidy, along with many friends and family.  He will be especially missed by his devoted sister, Mary Fancher.  James also leaves behind his loving partner, Cynthia Murphy, with whom he shared seven cherished years.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 4:00-7:00PM at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 W. Bay Avenue, Barnegat, NJ.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00AM on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at St. Mary’s Church, Barnegat, NJ, followed by entombment at St. Mary’s Mausoleum, Manahawkin, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of James to MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486.

With seemingly nine lives filled with stories and adventures, his final hand has been played.  May he Rest in Peace.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James J. Bockin, Sr., please visit our floral store.