Obituary of Douglas L. Wilcox
Douglas L. Wilcox, 80, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Lehigh Valley Hospital--Hecktown Oaks in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Born in Elizabeth, N.J., Mr. Wilcox grew up in Roselle and resided in Hackettstown for 30 years before relocating to Easton, P.A., nearly five years ago.
A Vietnam Veteran, he served in the United States Army from 1968 - 1970.
Doug had a 32 year career with the State of New Jersey, first as Assistant Personnel Director at Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton, N.J. and ending as Human Resource Manager at Greystone Psychiatric Hospital, Parsippany, N.J.
During his younger days, Doug enjoyed boating on Culver's Lake in Sussex County, N.J. and socializing in the lake community, as well as woodworking in his home shop.
Years later, he enjoyed camping and hiking with his children, exploring his genealogy/ancestry, reading, playing the piano, and wine tasting. Doug was an avid post card collector. His favorite holiday was Christmas. He collected Santa Clauses and played Santa Claus for his grandchildren. Corny Dad jokes were his favorite, and he loved making people laugh.
He was a fan of Simon and Garfunkel and "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was one of his favorite songs. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Hackettstown and of the Hackettstown Historical Society for many years before moving to Easton, P.A.
Predeceased by a brother, Gary Wilcox, Doug is survived by his three children: Erin Halajian (Dan) of Wood-Ridge, N.J., Meghan Wilcox of Phillipsburg, N.J. and Matthew Wilcox (Khristine) of Piscataway, N.J.; his brother, Harold Wilcox of Monroe, N.J.; former wife and dear friend, Darlene Wilcox-Smith (Rob) of Phillipsburg, N.J.; four grandchildren, Clark, Sylvette, Aubrey and Dylan; nieces and nephews and their families.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Gathering on Saturday, August 31, 2024, beginning at 1:00 p.m. followed by a 3:45 p.m. prayer service, along with the rendering of Military Honors in the McCriskin -- Gustafson Home for Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield, N.J. 07080.