Obituary of James Edward Sayers, Jr.
James Edward Sayers, Jr.’s love of life didn’t come to an end with his death.
James “Jim” Sayers passed away on June 3, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones, who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. His battle with serious medical issues showed his courage in facing life’s challenges and he maintained his strength until the very end.
Jim was born to James E. Sayers, Sr., and Viola M. (Lupia) Sayers in January 1948. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his time in Vietnam. Upon his return, Jim joined the Newark Police Department, where he bravely protected and served for many years. His true passion was photography, and he turned that passion into two successful photography businesses that he owned and operated for over twenty-five years. Jim then took a job with the NJ State Lottery and eventually became a district supervisor for the NJ Department of Labor, where he continued to work until his passing.
Jim had a real zest for life and enjoyed every single moment exactly the way he wanted to, on his terms. He loved Italian food, wine, Dewar’s, music, dancing and spending time with his family. Jim spared no expense and lived by the motto “you can’t take it with you”. As a father, he always made sure he went above and beyond to provide for his family. Fond memories of vacations, beaches, amusement parks, concerts, festivals, dinners, movies and shopping are shared, especially by his daughter, who recalls all of the fun times they had as she grew up. Jim loved playing golf with his brothers, stepson and friends and was still trying to perfect his game. In his alone time he liked watching sports and animal shows on TV until he fell asleep, or as he would say, “I’m just resting my eyes”.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Corrie Sayers and her fiancé, Job Vitale; his stepson, Paul Ward and his wife, Barbara; his brothers, William “Billy” Sayers and his wife Deborah; John “Jack” Sayers and his wife, Rosemary; and Robert “Bobby” Sayers; his sister, Patricia “Pattie” Bittman and her husband, Charles; his two grandchildren, Tyler and Samantha Ward; and a small army of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Codey Funeral Home in Caldwell from 4pm to 8pm on Thursday June 8, 2023. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, Roseland on Friday, June 9th at 10:00am, followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the American Heart Association in Jim’s memory. To share a condolence or a memory, please visit codeyfuneralhome.com.