Theodore Joseph “TJ” Bill

Theodore Joseph “TJ” Bill, 38, passed away on October 25, 2023, at his home in Phillipsburg, NJ.

TJ was a former member of the military and a beloved son, brother, father, and uncle. TJ was born on March 9, 1985, to Matthew and Maureen Bill. He was welcomed into the family home located in High Bridge, NJ, by numerous relatives, including four siblings. TJ spent his childhood learning to love music, being read to by his sisters, following his older brother around and loved being a boy scout.  As a youngster, TJ had a curious mind and especially enjoyed fixing items others would have thrown out as garbage. He even went as far as to take apart new products to see how they worked and if he could put them back together in usable condition. 

In High School, TJ split his time studying at Voorhees High School in Glen Gardner, NJ, and in the Mechanics program at North Hunterdon Vo-Tech School located in Annandale, NJ. His first job in High School was at Muller Toyota in Clinton, NJ. After high school, TJ moved to Phoenix, AZ.

Once in Phoenix, AZ, TJ felt called to serve in the military. TJ joined the brothers of the Echo Company 1/285th “Rogues” division. He completed overseas tours in Afghanistan. During TJ’s military career, he received commendations and other rewards. TJ was Honorably Discharged from his military service in 2010.

After his military service, he was employed in several positions, including TorcUp in Easton, PA, and more recently by the United States Post Office in Califon, NJ. While working, TJ continued to further his education. He obtained an Association of Arts degree in Engineering Management Technology from Grantham University in 2017. Recently, he enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program at the University of Arkansas.

During his life, family and friends say TJ often had a twinkle in his eye and was most happy when he could make others laugh. He had an enormous, kind heart and loved kids and animals. TJ was respectful to all and could make strangers become instant friends.

TJ loved the family he built with Lalani Blackburn, especially their children. He is survived by his son Matthew “Matty” Bill, Kylah Blackburn, Skyler Russell, and Nakeah Blackburn. He recently became a grandfather to August Rollins and Brynleigh Edwards.

TJ’s parents remain alive with loving memories of their son, along with his sisters and brothers: Mary Boykoff, Catherine Burton, Patrick Bill, and Patricia Eschner. TJ enjoyed visiting his two aunts: Rosemary Mulvaney and Connie O’Malley-Kulmacz. He also will be missed by numerous nieces and nephews: William Elston, Sienna Bill, Keira Boykoff, Aiden Bill, Kendra Boykoff, Collin Burton, Leland Haines, and Owen Haines. His adored dog, Rogue, will remain with his family.

Family and friends are invited to visit with TJ’s remaining family on Friday, November 3, 2023, between 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at the Finegan Funeral Home at 302 Heckman St., Phillipsburg, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at Saint Philip and James Catholic Church at 430 South Main St. in Phillipsburg, NJ. The entombment will follow at St. Philip and James Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in TJ’s name to Battle Borne or the Phillipsburg Emergency Squad can be considered.  https://wearebattleborne.com/ https://www.phillipsburgems.org/