James J. Morley, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away Friday, October 11th.  James was 71 years of age.

James was born on March 10th, 1953 to John and Mary Morley in Bronx, NY.  He spent his early years in the Bronx before moving to Palisades and, ultimately, Tappan, where he would spend most of his life raising his 3 boys along with his wife Geraldine.

He was a graduate of Fordham Prep in 1969 and Fordham University in 1973, a proud member of Fordham's "3-3", a program that he remembers fondly.  He completed his Master's degree from Fordham University in 1975, all with a focus on Medieval History. While he may have finished his formal studies here, James remained a life-long academic and never found a book he wouldn't read.

James began his career in the family business working for Harry M. Stevens Inc. – vendor to the world, caterer extraordinaire and concessionaire at ballparks, arenas, and racetracks across America.  He oversaw vending and souvenir activities for Shea Stadium, home of the New York Mets, where he met his beloved wife, Geraldine.  In 1979 James took a position overseeing concessions for the Bronx Zoo, embarking on a 40+ year career in service to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).  His career grew into running Procurement for The Wildlife Conservation Society, a role he cherished until his retirement.  Never would you meet someone who could talk so passionately and knowledgeably about exotic animals, hay, monorail cars and butterfly enclosures…all in the same conversation.  James was especially proud of working to open the Brooklyn Aquarium after Hurricane Sandy.

James led a rich personal life, devoting himself to many passions and causes.  He had been a religious education/CCD teacher dating back to 1995 for both Our Lady of the Sacred Heart and, most recently, St. Anthony's.  He was an avid cook and baker, especially in recreating medieval recipes.

James was one of the biggest "Habs" (Montreal Canadiens) hockey fans, you'll find south of the Canadian border.  For years, he's traveled the country to watch Habs games with his sons and other Habs fans.  He remains one of the original Mets fans around, having worked both the 1969 and 1986 World Series.  Finally, James loved golf, having traveled across the country and to Ireland to play.  He taught all 3 sons to play and was one of the very few 71 year olds to still hit a 1-iron straight.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years Geraldine, sons Brian (Lauren) of Ellicott City, MD, Terence (Suzanne) of Cranford, NJ and James of Boston, MA as well as grandchildren Avery, James, Olivia and Eliza. Visitation will be Tuesday, October 15th from 3 to 7pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony's of Northvale on Wednesday, October 16th at 10:00am.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of James Morley to St. Anthony's Food Pantry located at 199 Walnut Street in Northvale, NJ 07647.