Retired Cranford Police Captain Dies At 74

CRANFORD, NJ — Retired Cranford Police Capt. James E. Washbourne, 74, of Westfield died peacefully on Friday, April 20, 2018.

Born in Garwood, James lived in Cranford for 30 years and Scotch Plains for 27 years, before settling to Westfield.

He served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War. James received his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from William Paterson University in Wayne.

He joined the Cranford Police Department in March 1966 as a patrolman, then a sergeant, before retiring as a captain in June 2004.

"We extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and thank him for his service to the residents of Cranford and the United States," Cranford Police Department posted.

Washbourne was a lifetime member of the Cranford P.B.A. Local 52.

He is predeceased by his dear brother William Washbourne.

Washbourne is survived by his beloved wife Catherine (Klein) Washbourne, three loving children Jody, Jason, and Jeffrey, and eight adored grandchildren Taylor, Madison, Spencer, Shea, Brynn, Brayden, Liam, and Evan.

Mastapeter Funeral Home in Roselle Park handled the arrangements.

(Image via Cranford Police Department: James E. Washbourne, 74, of Westfield)

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