Dr. John (Jack) Emery

John W. (Jack) Emery passed away on December 1st after battling a short illness. Born March 2, 1943, in Phillipsburg, NJ to the late Harvey and Margaret Gallagher Emery of Morrie’s Acres. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, the former Barbara James.

A 1961 graduate of Phillipsburg High School and 1965 graduate of Villanova University, Dr. Emery received both his master’s and doctoral degrees in Curriculum and Educational Administration from Rutgers University.

A 33-year career educator in the Phillipsburg School District, Dr. Emery’s professional roles spanned teaching English, serving as the high school Vice Principal, and Superintendent of schools. He retired as Director of the Stepping Stone School in 2005.

Dr. Emery was actively engaged in many phases of the community including coaching athletics, such as the high school Varsity Head Baseball Coach, President of the Lopatcong Township Athletic Association, and Board Member of the Joseph H. Firth Youth Center. Dr. Emery was a high school varsity athlete in wrestling, baseball, and football, which included being the punter for the 1960 N.J. State Championship team. He was also a 4-year player of the Villanova University baseball team and was named to the 1965 NCAA Pennsylvania District 11 All-Star Team.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters Lauren Emery Woodard (Mark) of Wayne, N.J., and Meredith Emery Okenquist (Michael) of Blue Bell, PA. Dr. Emery is also survived by 4 grandchildren: Jack and Sydney Woodard, and Madeline and Noah Okenquist. He was pre-deceased by his brothers, Dr. Robert C. Emery, H. Thomas Emery, and Donald R. Emery.

There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Alpha, NJ at 10 am on Monday, December 4th. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Dr. Emery’s honor may be made to the St. Jude’s Hospital or a charity of personal choice