James J. Muth

Of Williamstown, passed peacefully on September 24, 2026, at the age of 76.  He was the beloved son of the late Nicholas F. and Martha (nee Strittmatter) Muth.  Dear brother of Nicholas J. (Veronica), Martha Jane Pritchard (the late Bill), Robert (Leda), Margaret Muth Kirkby (Alan), Mary Ellen Muth (Michael Sherfey) and the late Frank.  Loved by many nieces and nephews, and grandniece and nephews. He was also survived by his long-time caregiver Theresa Mbah.

James was a 1968 graduate of Williamstown High School. He earned a Landscape Architectural degree from Rutgers University and an Environmental Law Degree. He worked for the Martha’s Vineyard Commission, and later for the California Coastal Commission as a cartographer for land use planning, to protect the quality of the shoreline environment.

As a teenager, he invested in a lifetime subscription to National Geographic magazine and thoroughly enjoyed world travel with his partner, Steven, and his dogs and parrot while living many years in California. He was an extraordinary cook and gardener.  His green thumb was apparent at an early age, and it influenced all of his younger siblings.  Flowers, vegetables, fruits, trees, indoor and outdoor plants of all kinds throughout all the seasons sustained him throughout his life.

As a natural advocate, he was a proud founding member of the Rutgers Homophile League. He had a strong sense of dedication to family. Upon his retirement, he stepped up to the task of relocating back to NJ and caregiving for his father for many years until he passed. James was diagnosed with a form of brain cancer not long after, and although he developed many disabilities, he never lost his strong inner spirit, nor his sense of humor and gratitude.

On behalf of James, the family wishes to thank the caregivers, therapists and staff at Jefferson Hospital, Active Day of Washington Township and Visiting Angels who treated him with compassion and dignity over the past 12 years, particularly Theresa.

Family and friends are welcome to attend his viewing Thursday 10:00 – 11:00 am at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp., followed by his funeral service at 11:00 am.  Interment Hillcrest Memorial Park, Washington Twp.

In honor of James’ memory, in lieu of flowers the family requests that you make a donation to PBS or the public radio station of your choice, enjoy a garden or share a meal with someone you love.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”