James P. Waddell, Sr.

James Patrick Waddell enjoyed a long career in law enforcement and softball, devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

James Patrick Waddell, 84 years of age of Hammonton, N.J passed peacefully at Allegria at The Fountains on Monday, February 27, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

Formerly of Maplewood/South Orange, N.J. where he attended Columbia High School and married his high school sweetheart, Barbara, for many years Jim was a friendly fixture in Maplewood Village as a Police Officer. Jim eventually served as a Prosecutor for Hudson County, N.J. and enjoyed a long career investigating and solving financial crimes for Prudential Financial in Newark, NJ. He was also a member of the Society of Investigators of Greater Newark, noted for his expertise with the polygraph.

Jim was well-known for his community leadership with the South Orange, N.J. Elks Crippled Children’s Fund. And as the legendary Pitcher with Maplewood Tire who, along with his erstwhile teammates, raised thousands for the charity while also playing many memorable competitions alongside three of his sons. Among his many outstanding honors, Jim was recognized as an honorary Colonel in Kentucky in 1988 for successfully prosecuting a notorious scam artist who defra

uded millions from many senior citizen’s retirement accounts. But perhaps his biggest legacy was his unbreakable love with Barbara.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, John and Ann Waddell (Lynch), sister Mary Sculthorpe and brothers John Waddell, Thomas Waddell and Francis Waddell. He is survived by his brother Patrick Waddell and his loving sons, James P. Waddell, Jr. (Kenneth Gallaher), Thomas E. Waddell (Lorian Adamucci), Christopher J. Waddell (Charlene Cerato) and John R. Waddell, grandchildren Ryan, Sara, Mikayla, Megan, Brianna, John Tyler (JT), Jake and Hannah and great-grandchildren Isaiah and Mollie.

Cremation is being held privately at LeRoy P. Wooster Funeral Home & Crematory in Atco, NJ. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations are requested in Jim’s name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research by clicking this link .