James Gerald Doran

James Gerald Doran, 34, of Burlington, New Jersey, passed away on January 12, 2026. 

James grew up in Bayville, attending Bayville Elementary School and graduated from Central Regional High School. James earned his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers in Political Science and History.

As an adult James resided in East Windsor and most recently in Burlington. James loved sailing his boat Raggie on the Delaware River, going for long walks and exploring with his dog Hermes, and tending a wide variety of plants. His green thumb beautified the world around him. He was a proud member of the Red Dragon Canoe Club and spent his free time helping the club with projects, as well as volunteering with other community groups. James was a proud Eagle Scout. He was a devoted husband and loved his family and friends deeply. Those around him were drawn to his steadfastness, his independent spirit, and his generosity. He gave his time freely to help others. James was a true renaissance man.

James worked for many years as a certified arborist and would proudly point out trees he had saved throughout his career. Recently, he transitioned to a job with the Department of Transportation. His strong work ethic and deep knowledge of his field distinguished his career. He was passionate about helping others new to his line of work "learn the ropes" and loved to see his colleagues succeed. 

He is survived by his loving wife Patty Doran, his parents, Fred and Karen Davis, and Christopher and Dawn Doran, his brother Evan and Brittany Doran and their son Troy, and his sister Lane Davis, grandparents Gerald Shimansky and Barbara Davis, and many, many loving relatives. James is predeceased by his grandparents John and Margaret Doran, Elaine Shimansky, James and Irene Hluchy, and Clifton Davis.

In lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations to the Burlington County Animal Shelter (https://www.co.burlington.nj.us) where James and Patty adopted their dog, or the Shipman Mansion Foundation, part of his beloved canoe club. 

Memorial Service for family and friends will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026 2:00- 6:00pm at Mastapeter Memorial Home, 270 Atlantic City Blvd., Bayville, NJ 08721 If you are ill, please do not attend; we have several immune compromised relatives and would not like them to get sick. Thank you for understanding..

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