James Bernard Barry formerly of Mendham, NJ, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on June 26, 2026. He was 95 years old.

Jim was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 14, 1930 to Joseph M. Barry and Anna (Maurer) Barry. Jim’s lifetime of achievements were interwoven throughout with humor, intellect, decency and faith. Known for his wit, one-liners and contagious chuckle, Jim had a gift of influence, interest in others and remarkable instinct. He made choices that were not easy, choices that would mean the best outcomes for all even if it meant a personal inconvenience or sacrifice. Jim loved his Catholic faith and stayed active in service to the Church throughout his life. From a young altar boy to later hosting Marriage Encounter groups in his home along with his wife Pat, to in retirement, providing outplacement counsel to the parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Mendham and attending the Saturday morning Men’s Spirituality Group. In the late 1980s, Jim was appointed Chairman of the Paterson Diocesan Planning Board and developed an Elementary School Master Plan. Voted unanimously in favor by the Presbyteral Council, the late Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Rodimer accepted Jim’s plan as the charter for the future of Catholic Schools in the diocese, bringing the opportunity of a Catholic School education to as many persons who wished to receive it.

Jim proudly served in the United States Army National Guard in its Artillery Arm from 1948-1951, and earned the rank of Sergeant Major prior to his Honorable Discharge. He worked nights on the DeSoto assembly line at the Chrysler Motor Company while by day earning his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Management from the University of Detroit, and graduated Valedictorian of his class in 1953. From there, Jim’s successful and lengthy career in automotive and corporate planning spanned over 35 years, earning Executive Vice President positions at Eltra Corporation and Allied Chemical, now Honeywell International. In the 1990s, Jim’s experience and vast corporate network took his career to the field of outplacement where he took VP roles initially with Jannotta-Bray then with Manchester Partners, International of New York, NY. After his retirement in 2002, Jim volunteered with the Community Soup Kitchen of Morristown helping unemployed, vulnerable adults find gainful employment. He also joined the local SCORE chapter to help advise local entrepreneurs looking to launch new business ventures.

Jim’s extraordinary success in business and in life are an indelible legacy which will remain with us all. Those who knew and loved him as well as those whose lives have been touched, influenced by his relentless pursuit to lead with kindness and with others in mind.

Predeceased by his devoted wife of 41 years, Patricia A. (Sackandy) in 2004 and by his beloved brother, Joseph K. Barry in 2020, Jim is survived by his son, Timothy B. Barry and his daughter, Megan K. Barry. Also surviving Jim are his adoring grandchildren, Kiayre A. Ogilvie and his wife Devina (Khan) Ogilvie of Newark, NJ, and Andreyah S. Ageday of Seattle, WA.

In lieu of flowers, if able please donate in Jim’s memory to SAY DETROIT or to any charity dear to you.