Judge James J. Bonafield, "Jay", of Clifton passed away on February 6, 2016 with his beloved wife Barbara at his side. Born in Paterson he was a lifelong resident of Clifton and was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Fair Lawn.

A US Army Air Force Veteran during WW II, Jay received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Rutgers University, and his Bachelor of Laws Degree and a Juris Doctor from Rutgers School of Law. Admitted to the Bar in 1954, Jay was an Attorney, Licensed Real Estate Broker and Insurance Broker. Jay was appointed as Judge of Compensation for the NJ Department of Labor & Industry in Newark, and was one of the oldest practicing attorneys.

A member of the NJ State Bar Association, the American Bar Association and the American Judicature Society, Jay was admitted to practice before the US Supreme Court and the Federal Courts. Jay was a member of the Clifton Lawyer's Club and the Passaic County Bar Association.

In 2007, Jay was named Pilot of the Year by Aviator's Guide, he was Beaumont Aviation President, was a member of the US Power Squadrons, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Boat Owners Association of the US, and the Sandy Point Yacht Club.

Darling husband for 44 years of Barbara (Becker).

Visiting Friday 4-7 PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Committal services will be private.

In remembrance of James J. Bonafield, donations given to Our Savior Lutheran Church 22-15 Broadway (Rt . 4), Fair Lawn 07410, would be greatly appreciated.