Southport
James Charles O’Keefe, Southport, NC, formerly of Ocean Township, NJ, died on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, in Wilmington, NC surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Long Branch, NJ on May 14, 1943 and made his home in Deal and Ocean Township, NJ until retiring to North Carolina in 2003. He graduated from Asbury Park High School and attended Monmouth College. He was employed by NJ Natural Gas Co. for nearly 40 years. Throughout his career, Jim was actively involved with numerous charities and non-profits including Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, United Way, Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, Habcore, and many others. He loved coaching his children’s sports teams, and during his time in North Carolina, he was typically found on the golf course.
Jim is survived by his wife of 36 years, Patricia Quigley O’Keefe, his children Kimberly O’Keefe Cameron (E. Lyme, CT), Jennifer Owens (Westfield, NJ), Kelly O’Keefe (Washington, DC) and Patrick O’Keefe (New York, NY), and his five grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2010, at 11AM at the
Community Baptist Church, 424 Lakewood Rd., Neptune, NJ. Repast immediately
following in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, 1201 Monroe Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712.
You may offer online condolences at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com
4 Comments
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:51 am
Pat,we are so sorry to hear of Jim passing.we had been told by Tom that he was not doing well.I have great memories of him from grammar school and high school.I remember our visit with you and him in NC several years ago. we will not be able to attend the memorial service as we will be in myrtle beach,of all places.Our years together in school and the gas company shall always have a good place in my heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Rich and Eileen Bartley
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:01 am
Pat,Kelly, and PJ
So very sorry to hear of Jims’ passing…Over the years, We often thought of all of you..We had many fun times together !!! Great memories ..He was truly a fun person and could always make you laugh ..Our deepest sympathy to you all…Sharon, Butch, Heather, and Melissa
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:20 am
To the O’Keefe family I extend sincerest condolences. I worked with Jim directly and on and off during my 16 years at NJNG. In fact, he hired me. I will never forget the interview – all we did was talk basketball! Nor will I forget how Jim, 14 years older and at least one hundred pounds heavier than me, nearly beat me in a 5 mile race in Belmar in the heat of mid-August. He had a great sense of humor, was a genuinely good guy and a pleasure to work with. I am sure you will all miss him terribly and, again, I extend condolences and send good thoughts to help you through a difficult time.
Tim Kelsey
March 5th, 2010 at 11:28 am
To the O’Keefe family with deepest sympathy, our prayers are with you.
Jim and I spent many hours in meetings on the Boys and Girls Club Board of Trustees working out ways to improve the Club’s: facilities programs and administrative processes. Jim will aways be remembered for his no-nonsence approach to solving problems, and his love for the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, New Jersey.