William Ernest Jolley

Born July 10, 1945

Died on May 31, 2025, of Sewell (Deptford Twp.). Age 79. Born in Paulsboro to Bob & Ida Jolley. Beloved husband of Sophia (nee Ciocca). Devoted father of Jonathan Jolley (Stephanie) and Kristi Mercado (Carlos). Loving grandfather of Michael, Gianna, Sebastian, and Dominic. Dear brother of Robert Jolley, Richard Knestaut, and the late Joyce McIlvaine.

Bill graduated Paulsboro High School in 1963. He went on to Glassboro State College (now Rowan) and graduated in 1967. He married in 1969 and started his family. He taught and then became Vice Principal in Clearview Middle School. He then went to AP Schalick High School to teach math, then became Principal until January 1, 2001.

He continued to do interim work for 13 years, including returning to Pittsgrove Twp. School District on three separate occasions, as well as other school districts in Gloucester and Salem Counties, being referred to as “Rent a Bill”. He was well known for being a wonderful and supportive administrator. He always cared about every student and was deeply involved in school activities. During that time he also drove a school bus in Harrison Twp. & drove a limo for Touch of Class Limousine in Vineland.

In his retirement, he returned to his love of Harley Davidson riding, joined the Camden County HOGS and rode as often as the weather would allow. In addition, he met & married Sophia Ciocca. Their love for dogs grew into a longstanding pet-sitting business.

Bill’s favorite things included spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, and friends, including the many furbabies.

Family and friends are invited to attend his visitation Monday, June 9^th 6:00 – 7:30 PM at Calvary Chapel of Gloucester County, 5360 NJ Rt. 42, Turnersville, NJ. Funeral service 7:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s memory may be made to the South Jersey Regional Animal Shelter.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”