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Supporting You Every Step of the Way
OBITUARIES
Honoring lives, sharing memories, and preserving legacies. Forever remembered, and always cherished. A tribute to lives that will never be forgotten.
James "Jimmy" Boyd
January 1, 1955 - March 20, 2026
James "Jimmy" Boyd, age 71, was born on January 1, 1955, in Newark, New Jersey, to Vera Mae Boyd-Smallwood. He departed this life on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Jimmy was raised in Irvington, New Jersey, where he graduated from Irvington Technical High School. He dedicated many years of service to Mann Craft Company in Port Newark, New Jersey, where he later retired. Jimmy had a special love for family. He cherished gatherings, enjoyed going to church, and took pride in participating in volunteer church events. At every family cookout, he made sure to bring a fresh deck of cards for the beloved game of Spades—a tradition that brought laughter and connection and lots of fun to us all.
It is with deep sorrow and enduring love that we remember our beloved husband, father, and brother. Jimmy's presence brought warmth, laughter, strength, and support to everyone who knew him. He was a steady friend, a trusted confidant, and a source of quiet courage. His kindness was not loud, but constant-woven into everyday moments that are now immeasurably precious.
He leaves behind his devoted and loving wife, Trudy Denise Boyd; his son, Aeraminta Jackson; and his daughters, Alicia Boyd, Deheavelyn (Jerry) Kinchen, and Ciara Boggs. He was a proud grandfather to Keion, Dy-Quil, Al-Derae, Jalin, Rashad, Rachel, Zair, Amir, and Gregory III.
Through his marriage to Trudy, he gained a loving stepdaughter, Markeya (Morelle) Brown, and three additional grandchildren, Shmil, Morelle, and Anyia.
He is also survived by his sisters, Linda (Michael) Moore, Dorothenia (Marvin) Jackson, Lavenia (Thomas) Woodson, Whitney Williams-Edwards, and Tommencita (Richard) Juan. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ernest Boyd.
Jimmy leaves a lasting legacy in his many nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends.
Though he is no longer with us in the ways we wish, he remains forever in our hearts-our brother, our friend, and a light that will never fade.
Rest peacefully. You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed.
James "Jimmy" Boyd, age 71, was born on January 1, 1955, in Newark, New Jersey, to Vera Mae Boyd-Smallwood. He departed this life on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Jimmy was raised in Irvington, New Jersey, where he graduated from Irvington Technical High School. He dedicated many years of service to Mann Craft Company in Port Newark, New Jersey, where he later retired. Jimmy had a special love for family. He cherished gatherings, enjoyed going to church, and took pride in participating in volunteer church events. At every family cookout, he made sure to bring a fresh deck of cards for the beloved game of Spades—a tradition that brought laughter and connection and lots of fun to us all.
It is with deep sorrow and enduring love that we remember our beloved husband, father, and brother. Jimmy's presence brought warmth, laughter, strength, and support to everyone who knew him. He was a steady friend, a trusted confidant, and a source of quiet courage. His kindness was not loud, but constant-woven into everyday moments that are now immeasurably precious.
He leaves behind his devoted and loving wife, Trudy Denise Boyd; his son, Aeraminta Jackson; and his daughters, Alicia Boyd, Deheavelyn (Jerry) Kinchen, and Ciara Boggs. He was a proud grandfather to Keion, Dy-Quil, Al-Derae, Jalin, Rashad, Rachel, Zair, Amir, and Gregory III.
Through his marriage to Trudy, he gained a loving stepdaughter, Markeya (Morelle) Brown, and three additional grandchildren, Shmil, Morelle, and Anyia.
He is also survived by his sisters, Linda (Michael) Moore, Dorothenia (Marvin) Jackson, Lavenia (Thomas) Woodson, Whitney Williams-Edwards, and Tommencita (Richard) Juan. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ernest Boyd.
Jimmy leaves a lasting legacy in his many nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends.
Though he is no longer with us in the ways we wish, he remains forever in our hearts-our brother, our friend, and a light that will never fade.
Rest peacefully. You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed.
Clinton E. Oates
December 18, 1935 - April 12, 2026
Clinton Earl Oates was born on December 18, 1935, in Dover, North Carolina. He was lovingly raised by his devoted grandparents, Bessie and Scott Len Oates, as well as his cherished mother, Abie Oates-Thorpe. After graduating from Newbold High School, in Barnwell, North Carolina, Clinton relocated to Hackensack, New Jersey, where he lived with the late Deacon Walter Oates and Deaconess Anna Bell Oates.
Through the introduction of a dear friend, Eula Sanford, Clinton met the love of his life, Josephine Sims. The two were united in marriage on December 14, 1957, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and devotion. In 1958, Clinton briefly served his country in the Armed Forces at Fort Dix, New Jersey. A man of curiosity and discipline, Clinton was deeply committed to lifelong learning. He attended Bergen Community College’s Continuing Education program, where he pursued studies in real estate licensing, construction estimating, concepts of appraisal, and property management. An avid reader, he built a collection of books centered on business, public speaking, and, above all, real estate—subjects that reflected both his ambition and his desire for growth. A graduate of Edward Williams College (Hackensack Campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University), Clinton later used his degree by working with students at Bergen County Special Services.
Clinton dedicated many years of service as a Compounder for Roure Bertrand Dupont in New Jersey, a company known for producing high-quality perfumes. His strong work ethic and reliability remained evident throughout his career until his retirement. Following retirement, Clinton continued to pursue his passion in education, specifically working with children and young adults. He was a permanent substitute teacher for Bergen County Academies in Hackensack where the students loved him. Principal Lynch said that he was respected by all in the school system. Mr. Oates also volunteered as a probation counselor, always striving to uplift and guide young people. His commitment to nurturing others extended into his church life as well. As a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church for over 70 years, Clinton served diligently as Superintendent of Sunday School. With a deep love for gospel music, he found joy in singing hymns from the heart. Dressed to the nines, he would often step out to attend the gospel music concerts produced by John Rogers. Up until his passing, he loved to listen to the Reverend Al Sharpton every Saturday morning. He especially loved the sermons on Social Justice.
"May the work I’ve done speak for me.”
Above all, Clinton will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and friends. He was a man who gave freely whether it was his time, a helping hand, financial support, encouragement, or simply a ride to those in need. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle who delighted in spending time with his family, creating cherished memories through outings to the mall, parks, and local favorites such as Palisades Park, Van Saun Park, Paramus Roller Rink, and Foschini Park. He himself was an avid movie goer.
Those who knew Clinton often described him as a kind and gentle soul someone who never complained or spoke a negative word about anyone. When you asked him how he was doing, his response was always “hanging in there.” He lived a Christ-centered life, embodying the Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Even after becoming legally blind later in life, Clinton never lost his spiritual vision. He kept his eyes on Christ and remained steadfast in his faith until his passing on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Clinton was preceded in death by his mother, Abie Oates-Thorpe; his grandmother, Bessie Oates; grandfather Scott Len Oates; his younger brother, Cornelius McCoy, Jr.; his brothers-in-law, Arthur Sims and Clyde Sims; and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Sims; Uncles Len Oates, Walter Oates, and Scott Oates; and Aunts Lila Williams and Dorothy Henderson.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Josephine Oates; his loving only daughter, Andrea Oates-Parchment (Lloyd Preston); his beloved granddaughter, Taylor Vaughn Martin; his sisters-in-law, Earnestine Sims and Nannie Mae Sims; his nephew-sons, David Sims and Fred Sims; his niece, Barbara Sims; his great-niece, Ashley Sims (Stephen); his beloved cousins/sisters, Virginia Powell and Linda Oates Bennett; his godsons, Keaon Powell and Cedric Dunlap; his goddaughter, Jamie Bland; his cousin, Haywood Powell; his devoted caretakers, Dawn Clarke, Patience, Rose, Suzette, and Shelia Holmes; and a host of cousins, extended family, and dear friends. Clinton’s life was a testament to faith, kindness, and quiet strength. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him.
Clinton Earl Oates was born on December 18, 1935, in Dover, North Carolina. He was lovingly raised by his devoted grandparents, Bessie and Scott Len Oates, as well as his cherished mother, Abie Oates-Thorpe. After graduating from Newbold High School, in Barnwell, North Carolina, Clinton relocated to Hackensack, New Jersey, where he lived with the late Deacon Walter Oates and Deaconess Anna Bell Oates.
Through the introduction of a dear friend, Eula Sanford, Clinton met the love of his life, Josephine Sims. The two were united in marriage on December 14, 1957, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and devotion. In 1958, Clinton briefly served his country in the Armed Forces at Fort Dix, New Jersey. A man of curiosity and discipline, Clinton was deeply committed to lifelong learning. He attended Bergen Community College’s Continuing Education program, where he pursued studies in real estate licensing, construction estimating, concepts of appraisal, and property management. An avid reader, he built a collection of books centered on business, public speaking, and, above all, real estate—subjects that reflected both his ambition and his desire for growth. A graduate of Edward Williams College (Hackensack Campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University), Clinton later used his degree by working with students at Bergen County Special Services.
Clinton dedicated many years of service as a Compounder for Roure Bertrand Dupont in New Jersey, a company known for producing high-quality perfumes. His strong work ethic and reliability remained evident throughout his career until his retirement. Following retirement, Clinton continued to pursue his passion in education, specifically working with children and young adults. He was a permanent substitute teacher for Bergen County Academies in Hackensack where the students loved him. Principal Lynch said that he was respected by all in the school system. Mr. Oates also volunteered as a probation counselor, always striving to uplift and guide young people. His commitment to nurturing others extended into his church life as well. As a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church for over 70 years, Clinton served diligently as Superintendent of Sunday School. With a deep love for gospel music, he found joy in singing hymns from the heart. Dressed to the nines, he would often step out to attend the gospel music concerts produced by John Rogers. Up until his passing, he loved to listen to the Reverend Al Sharpton every Saturday morning. He especially loved the sermons on Social Justice.
"May the work I’ve done speak for me.”
Above all, Clinton will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and friends. He was a man who gave freely whether it was his time, a helping hand, financial support, encouragement, or simply a ride to those in need. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle who delighted in spending time with his family, creating cherished memories through outings to the mall, parks, and local favorites such as Palisades Park, Van Saun Park, Paramus Roller Rink, and Foschini Park. He himself was an avid movie goer.
Those who knew Clinton often described him as a kind and gentle soul someone who never complained or spoke a negative word about anyone. When you asked him how he was doing, his response was always “hanging in there.” He lived a Christ-centered life, embodying the Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Even after becoming legally blind later in life, Clinton never lost his spiritual vision. He kept his eyes on Christ and remained steadfast in his faith until his passing on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Clinton was preceded in death by his mother, Abie Oates-Thorpe; his grandmother, Bessie Oates; grandfather Scott Len Oates; his younger brother, Cornelius McCoy, Jr.; his brothers-in-law, Arthur Sims and Clyde Sims; and his sister-in-law, Dorothy Sims; Uncles Len Oates, Walter Oates, and Scott Oates; and Aunts Lila Williams and Dorothy Henderson.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Josephine Oates; his loving only daughter, Andrea Oates-Parchment (Lloyd Preston); his beloved granddaughter, Taylor Vaughn Martin; his sisters-in-law, Earnestine Sims and Nannie Mae Sims; his nephew-sons, David Sims and Fred Sims; his niece, Barbara Sims; his great-niece, Ashley Sims (Stephen); his beloved cousins/sisters, Virginia Powell and Linda Oates Bennett; his godsons, Keaon Powell and Cedric Dunlap; his goddaughter, Jamie Bland; his cousin, Haywood Powell; his devoted caretakers, Dawn Clarke, Patience, Rose, Suzette, and Shelia Holmes; and a host of cousins, extended family, and dear friends. Clinton’s life was a testament to faith, kindness, and quiet strength. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him.
Wilma J. Lee
September 5, 1943 - June 5, 2026
Wilma Jane Lee (née Walker) was born on September 5, 1943, at Hackensack Hospital in Hackensack, NJ to Edna G. Macklin (née Walker). Although not her biological father, Richard Somerville, the lifelong companion of her mother, became the father she knew and dearly loved. She was the eldest of five siblings. She attended the Hackensack school system, graduating from Hackensack High School in 1961. Soon thereafter while on a weekend with friends in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Wilma would meet the love of her life, Gerard (Billy) Lee, Jr. and the pair were bound in matrimony on October 14, 1967. To this union, their son Bakari Gerard Lee was born on November 26, 1970.
Guided by an ethos of service and compassion instilled in her by her mother, Wilma matriculated to the Jersey City Medical Center School of Nursing, where she became a Registered Nurse. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Jersey City State University and pursued additional certifications through Rutgers University. Wilma’s nursing career consisted of being a member of the surgical team that opened the 1st Surgical Intensive Care Unit-Hackensack University Hospital, teaching Licensed Practical Nursing courses for many years at Piscataway Vocational-Technical School and working as a school nurse in the City of Newark, City of Orange Township and Plainfield school districts, and ultimately after retirement at The King’s Daughters Day School located in Plainfield.
In 1980, after learning of an interesting new opportunity from her cousin-sister Carol Gregory, Wilma joined Mary Kay Cosmetics in December of that year. As she began her career as a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant she unwittingly stepped into a brave new world, one that would irrevocably change her life forever, for this world would be different from any other that she had previously experienced. Her incentive was uncomplicated; she simply wanted to attend the Red Jacket Retreat being hosted by then future National Sales Director, Barbara Sunden. Consequently, Wilma rolled up her sleeves and went to work. Shortly afterwards Wilma became a proud new member of the elite Red Jacket club. Thus, beginning her first steps forward in building her Mary Kay future. She went on to serve as an Independent Sales Director for over 45 years with the Mary Kay Cosmetics Company, achieving a litany of accolades including mentoring more than 40 members of her unit into leadership positions, some excelling into Mary Kay’s upper leadership positions, earning as many as 16 company cars, including the signature Pink Cadillac, as well as coaching and supporting multiple unit members into earning their company cars, being recognized and honored by Mary Kay multiple times for personal high sales and high unit sales evidenced by several coveted diamond bar pins paying tribute to these achievements. Her highest honor was having her name forever engraved in the Mary Kay Museum.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Wilma faithfully served both her church and community throughout her life. Wilma was also a dutiful servant to her community as indicated by her service in the Family-First Program in conjunction with the Plainfield Housing Authority and the Morristown Neighborhood House Rites of Passage Program, both of which she assumed upon the passing of her husband, Dr. Gerard W. Lee Jr. She assisted with a variety of Plainfield political fundraising efforts and events, worked with the Plainfield Seniors, held the office of Democratic Committee Person, was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ, and was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of South Orange under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson until her passing.
Above all else, Wilma loved the Lord. Her faith guided her service as a nurse, mentor, mother, wife, leader, and friend. Whether offering a comforting word, extending a helping hand, or encouraging someone to believe in themselves, she reflected God's love in practical and meaningful ways. Her life stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and servant leadership.
Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Gerard W. Lee, Jr., her mother Edna G. Macklin, her brother Edward Macklin and her sister Alice Cheatham. She is survived by her son, Bakari G. Lee, Esq. (Taynaya), her granddaughters Niara Denise Lee (9) and Kamara Jane Lee (5), her sisters Sylvia Macklin-Johnson (Stewart) and Denise (Donna) Macklin, cousin-sister Carol Gregory, cousin-brother Dallas Gray, nephew Louis Cheatham, nieces Jana, Mayia and Kai Johnson, Stacey Macklin, and a host of loving family and friends.
Maya Angelou once famously said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Few lives exemplified that truth more than Wilma's. Her greatest achievement was not found in awards, titles, or accomplishments, but in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering love. She was a collector and healer of souls as loved by a large village.
Wilma Jane Lee (née Walker) was born on September 5, 1943, at Hackensack Hospital in Hackensack, NJ to Edna G. Macklin (née Walker). Although not her biological father, Richard Somerville, the lifelong companion of her mother, became the father she knew and dearly loved. She was the eldest of five siblings. She attended the Hackensack school system, graduating from Hackensack High School in 1961. Soon thereafter while on a weekend with friends in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Wilma would meet the love of her life, Gerard (Billy) Lee, Jr. and the pair were bound in matrimony on October 14, 1967. To this union, their son Bakari Gerard Lee was born on November 26, 1970.
Guided by an ethos of service and compassion instilled in her by her mother, Wilma matriculated to the Jersey City Medical Center School of Nursing, where she became a Registered Nurse. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Jersey City State University and pursued additional certifications through Rutgers University. Wilma’s nursing career consisted of being a member of the surgical team that opened the 1st Surgical Intensive Care Unit-Hackensack University Hospital, teaching Licensed Practical Nursing courses for many years at Piscataway Vocational-Technical School and working as a school nurse in the City of Newark, City of Orange Township and Plainfield school districts, and ultimately after retirement at The King’s Daughters Day School located in Plainfield.
In 1980, after learning of an interesting new opportunity from her cousin-sister Carol Gregory, Wilma joined Mary Kay Cosmetics in December of that year. As she began her career as a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant she unwittingly stepped into a brave new world, one that would irrevocably change her life forever, for this world would be different from any other that she had previously experienced. Her incentive was uncomplicated; she simply wanted to attend the Red Jacket Retreat being hosted by then future National Sales Director, Barbara Sunden. Consequently, Wilma rolled up her sleeves and went to work. Shortly afterwards Wilma became a proud new member of the elite Red Jacket club. Thus, beginning her first steps forward in building her Mary Kay future. She went on to serve as an Independent Sales Director for over 45 years with the Mary Kay Cosmetics Company, achieving a litany of accolades including mentoring more than 40 members of her unit into leadership positions, some excelling into Mary Kay’s upper leadership positions, earning as many as 16 company cars, including the signature Pink Cadillac, as well as coaching and supporting multiple unit members into earning their company cars, being recognized and honored by Mary Kay multiple times for personal high sales and high unit sales evidenced by several coveted diamond bar pins paying tribute to these achievements. Her highest honor was having her name forever engraved in the Mary Kay Museum.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Wilma faithfully served both her church and community throughout her life. Wilma was also a dutiful servant to her community as indicated by her service in the Family-First Program in conjunction with the Plainfield Housing Authority and the Morristown Neighborhood House Rites of Passage Program, both of which she assumed upon the passing of her husband, Dr. Gerard W. Lee Jr. She assisted with a variety of Plainfield political fundraising efforts and events, worked with the Plainfield Seniors, held the office of Democratic Committee Person, was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ, and was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of South Orange under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson until her passing.
Above all else, Wilma loved the Lord. Her faith guided her service as a nurse, mentor, mother, wife, leader, and friend. Whether offering a comforting word, extending a helping hand, or encouraging someone to believe in themselves, she reflected God's love in practical and meaningful ways. Her life stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and servant leadership.
Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Gerard W. Lee, Jr., her mother Edna G. Macklin, her brother Edward Macklin and her sister Alice Cheatham. She is survived by her son, Bakari G. Lee, Esq. (Taynaya), her granddaughters Niara Denise Lee (9) and Kamara Jane Lee (5), her sisters Sylvia Macklin-Johnson (Stewart) and Denise (Donna) Macklin, cousin-sister Carol Gregory, cousin-brother Dallas Gray, nephew Louis Cheatham, nieces Jana, Mayia and Kai Johnson, Stacey Macklin, and a host of loving family and friends.
Maya Angelou once famously said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Few lives exemplified that truth more than Wilma's. Her greatest achievement was not found in awards, titles, or accomplishments, but in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering love. She was a collector and healer of souls as loved by a large village.
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