James Edward Pemberton, Sr.

James E. Pemberton, Sr., "POPS", passed away on April 13, 2025 in Ocean, New Jersey at the age of 69. He passed away at home peacefully with family and friends by his side after a long battle with cancer. Born on September 5, 1955 in Long Branch, Jimmy lived a life defined by service, devotion to family, and an unwavering commitment to his community.

A proud graduate of Ocean Township High School’s Class of 1973, Jimmy went on to attend Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. He built a strong and respected career as a Union Carpenter with Local 2250 out of Red Bank. Later in life, he served as Head of Security at The Headliner night club and worked alongside his sons at Pemberton's Landscaping LLC—an experience that brought him great pride and joy.

Jimmy dedicated over five decades to the Wanamassa Fire Company, where he served with distinction as a five-time Chief and earned the honor of Life Member. His passion for firefighting was more than a duty—it was a calling that shaped much of his life. Whether responding to emergencies or preparing meals as a sous chef for firehouse events with his nephew Steven, Jimmy found purpose in giving back.

His generosity extended beyond the firehouse. Alongside his beloved wife Cindy—his partner in life for 38 years—Jimmy helped prepare over 100 meals a day for Fulfill, demonstrating their shared commitment to helping others.

Family was the heart of Jimmy’s world. He was always present—cheering from the sidelines at every sporting event and celebrating every milestone in his children’s lives. He coached Ocean Township Pop Warner football and took immense pride in watching his grand"babies"—Leo, River, Reign and Ella—grow and thrive. Whether playing with them or attending their activities, Jimmy cherished every moment spent with his grand“babies.” His greatest joy was earning the title of POP-POP.

A man of Catholic faith and deep-rooted values, Jimmy’s legacy lives on through the love he poured into his family and community. His greatest pride was always his boys—and the life he built with Cindy stood as a testament to enduring love and partnership.

James is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Cindy Pemberton, and their sons: Gary, Brian (Aliza), and Joe (Crystal); grand"babies": Leo, River, Reign, and Ella; sister: Phyllis and Bobby Sexton; brother Gary Pemberton and 8 nephews and 6 nieces. He was preceded in death by his mother and father Joan and James Pemberton and his son James E. Pemberton Jr.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue in Long Branch from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a fireman's prayer service at 7:00 pm.  Visitation will also be on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at The Church of St. Anselm, 1028 Wayside Road in Tinton Falls at 10:00 am with a Funeral Service to begin at 11:00 am. Following the church service, a funeral procession will leave St. Anselm Church and travel to the Wanamassa Firehouse where a final Firemen's Tribute will take place. Immediately following the tribute, the family invites everyone to attend a celebration of life/ repast at the firehouse.

Interment will take place at 10 am on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at Mount Calvary Cemetery, located at 2500 NJ-66 in Neptune. The repast will take place at the Pemberton's residence at 2902 Appleby Dr. Ocean, N.J. 07712 immediately following the burial. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Wanamassa Fire Company (in memory of James), 2001 Sunset Ave. Ocean N.J. 07712. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.

May the memory of James E. Pemberton, Sr. "POPS", bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

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