James S. Hope, Jr.

James S. Hope, Jr., 87, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Born in Cranford, NJ, he was the son of the late James S. Hope, Sr. and Harriet A. Lund Hope. Jim was a longtime resident of Bridgewater since 1974, formerly of Piscataway and Fanwood.

Jim wore many hats in his lifetime. He was voted best dressed in high school, proudly served two terms in the United States Marine Corps from 1957 to 1961, and owned Hope Wood Craft, a family business he established in 1974. He truly loved what he did, and was always willing to extend a helping hand.

As an avid sports fan, Jim enjoyed golfing every chance he had. He loved cheering on the New York Yankees and the New York Giants and cherished his collection of memorabilia.

Born James Slater, known to his parents and classmates as “Skip”, his wife as “Jim”, and his children as “Dad”. He then gained his proudest nickname in 1990 when his first-born grandchild titled him “Beta”. This name carried him far beyond the walls of his family – a name he was proud of, from then on, he was Beta to all who knew and loved him.

Above all, he treasured time spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren at his favorite place, the Jersey Shore.

Jim was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Lear. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 63 years, Arlene "Judy" Hope; his children, James A. Hope and his wife, Janice of Martinsville, and Jill S. Sonner and her husband, Robert of Bridgewater; and his cherished grandchildren, Ryan Sonner (Melanie), Randal Sonner (Kimberly Davis), Hope Rucereto (Michael), Morgan Hope, Madison Hope (Adam Selph), and Jenna Hope.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1 to 3 PM, with services at 2:30 PM, at the Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 E. Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to the Alzheimer's Association, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), or a charity of your choice.

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