James W. Pharazyn, Jr.

James W. Pharazyn Jr., 88, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 12, 2026. His passing was on his own terms, sitting in the sun in his backyard.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara N. Pharazyn (nee Nelson); his daughters, Amy L. Pharazyn of Westmont, NJ, Rebecca L. Pharazyn of Westmont, NJ, Jamie P. Hoekstra (Mark) of Fayetteville, GA, and Katie M. Pharazyn of Cherry Hill, NJ; and his grandchildren, James, Brandon, Aidan, Grace, and Landon. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his cherished brother, Frank W. Pharazyn; his parents, James and Evelyn Pharazyn Sr.; his mother- and father-in-law, Florence and Edward Nelson; and his brother-in-law, Edward “Scott” Nelson.

Jim devoted 35 years of his life to education in the Burlington City School System, serving as a teacher, middle school Vice Principal, and two Elementary Principalships. Along the way, he became an Adjunct Professor for Glassboro State College, teaching Earth Science. During that time, he coached freshman and high school football, high school cross-country, and track and field. He took great pride in his career and in the many students he taught.

Jim and Barbara frequently traveled during their retirement, exploring overseas and various parts of the United States. Jim enjoyed golfing, fishing, watching Philly sports, and taking care of his yard and garden. He also truly valued spending time in North Wildwood with his family.

Those who knew Jim know there was another essential part of who he was: his sense of humor. He was funny, quick-witted, and never one to pass up an opportunity for a good joke or a well-timed comment. He had a way of making everyone laugh and bringing lightness to the people around him; if you were lucky, he might’ve even sung you a song.

Jim lived a life grounded in family, friendship, education, integrity, and humor. He wanted to be remembered as a good and honorable man, a positive father, a devoted husband, and a friend people could depend on. By those measures, he succeeded. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the lives he touched.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jim’s visitation on Friday, September 18th, 2026, from 6-7:30 pm, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at the Jackson Funeral Home, 308 Haddon Ave, Haddon Township, NJ. Interment will be private. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 or the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692. Arrangements by Jackson Funeral Home, Haddon Township, NJ www.jacksonfh.net