James Peter Vuocolo, a founder of the Diocese’s Blue Mass, death announced

May 27, 2025 at 3:54 p.m.

James Peter Vuocolo, a long-time detective for the Dover Township Police Department and a founding member of the Diocese of Trenton’s Blue Mass Committee in 2000, died May 21 at age 77.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated May 30 at 1 p.m. in St. Joseph Church, Toms River.

Born in Jersey City, Mr. Vuocolo lived in Toms River for 40 years, then Mays Landing before moving to Barnegat three years ago. He was a member of St. Joseph Parish, Toms River, and                                                                                                                                                                   St. Catharine of Siena Parish, Seaside Park, which is now part of St. Junipero Serra Parish, Seaside Park.

Mr. Vuocolo retired as a detective for the Dover Township Police Department (now Toms River Police Department) after many years of service. He was also a founding member of the 200 Club of Ocean County, which provides support to police officers, firefighters and emergency medical services personnel who are killed or seriously injured in the line of duty,  and a member of the Toms River Policemen’s Benevolent Association Inc. Toms River Twp. Local 137.

Mr. Vuocolo was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce Riccardi Vuocolo; two children; a brother, a sister and four grandchildren.

Shaun Golden of the Monmouth County’s Sheriff’s Office, who served on the Blue Mass Committee with Mr. Vuocolo, commented on his colleague’s longstanding involvement with the Blue Mass saying that “his dedication and tireless efforts were instrumental” in its success  and continued growth. His presence will be greatly missed.”