James “Jamie” Thomas Milligan, 54, of New Milford, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 20th, 2024. Jamie was surrounded by his loving family when called home by our Heavenly Father. He is survived by his loving parents, Larry Milligan and Mary Ann Milligan, as well as his dedicated sister Patricia Ann (William) Finck and cherished brother Kevin (Nikka) Milligan. He is also survived by his devoted aunts, Carol Baist, Lorraine (Terry) McMackin, and his dearest nieces and nephews, William (Krystal) Finck, Kellianne Finck, Asher Milligan and Bryson Milligan. Jamie is predeceased by his grandparents Gus and Betty Sullivan, Charles and Teresa Milligan, who he cherished and held close to his heart. He is also predeceased by his godmother Patricia Wenisch.
Jamie also leaves behind numerous cousins and close friends. Jamie was born on April 27th, 1970 in Westwood, NJ. Jamie spent his childhood years growing up in New Milford, where he enjoyed playing football and baseball. He was proud to be part of the 1985 New Milford State Championship Football Team. Jamie also volunteered his time in New Milford as a junior firefighter, and later went on to become a volunteer firefighter for New Milford Fire Company 1. Jamie graduated from New Milford High School in 1988. After his years of schooling, he became a Correctional Officer in Warren County.
Lover of nature, master chef, and helper to others, Jamie was a jack of all trades. Jamie was passionate about working on cars, working as an electrician, landscaping and building various things with tools. He loved hunting, fishing, and going on walks to appreciate the beauty of the Earth. Jamie cared dearly for his dog Max, who he welcomed into his home in 2022, and nurtured his dog Maggie until she passed. He was a magnificent dog trainer and loved any animal that crossed his path.
Much of Jamie’s time was dedicated to research. He studied, completed online courses to become more aware of health and wellness, and was eager to continue learning. He encouraged his nieces and nephews to go above and beyond to achieve their greatest goals in life.
Jamie was resilient and a warrior. For numerous years, Jamie fought a difficult battle with Myasthenia Gravis. He underwent numerous surgeries, medical treatments and hospital admissions, all to improve his quality of life. Despite his personal battles with his health, Jamie put other people at the forefront of his life. In a situation with so much unknown, he looked forward and saw the good in life. He was there for others, always offering a helping hand. Jamie
was a healer; he knew how to console, how to care for those who were sick, and offer advice in times of need. He always welcomed his friends and family with open arms and ears clear to listen. In times where Jamie could have lost hope, he persevered and made the best of the cards he was dealt. We will miss his positive attitude and strong will to make a difference on this Earth.
Jamie will forever be remembered for his kindhearted soul and unconditional love he had for his friends and family.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 27, 5-9 PM, at the Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont, NJ 07628. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, September 28, 10 AM, at Sacred Heart Church, 102 Park Street, Haworth, NJ 07641. Entombment will follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to National Organizations for Rare Disorders Inc.