Obituary of Joel Howard Schechter

Joel Howard Schechter, 81, of Manalapan, passed away at home on Saturday, December 14, 2024 surrounded by his family.  Joel is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Diane Schechter (nee Ollett); daughter, Pamela Halpin and her husband, Eric, of Fanwood, NJ; son, Barry Schechter and his wife Marla, of Middletown, DE; four grandchildren, Matthew, Alexander, Abigail, and Julianna; brother-in-law, Raymond Ollett, Jr. and his wife, Ann Spaeth of Denver, CO; niece, Samantha Stadlmann of Bend, OR. He was predeceased by his brother, Dr. Henry Schechter. 

Joel graduated Phi Beta Kappa from City College of New York and continued his education earning his master’s degree from Rutgers University. He proudly served in the Army National Guard.  A Bronx native, he moved to Manalapan in 1972. 

Joel enjoyed the simple pleasures in life - long walks (including his favorite 19-mile walk in NYC), basking in the sun by the pool or on the beach, playing cards, board games and trivia.  Early dates with Diane were often spent at horse racing tracks, a pleasure they enjoyed together throughout their marriage.  He even celebrated his 80th birthday at Monmouth Park with his family!

Joel was known for his quick wit, kind heart, and long-winded philosophical thoughts when others wanted short answers!  He loved history and was fortunate enough to travel globally to many of the historical sites that he had read about in textbooks.    

His greatest love was for his family.  He was a loving husband, a wonderful father, and his proudest role was “Grandpa”.

Joel passed away after a short battle with lung cancer. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his 3:00 PM graveside service on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Congregation Agudath Achim Cemetery, Cardigan Bay Lane and Route 33 Business, Freehold Township, NJ.  Arrangements by Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, Freehold Township.  For those who desire, memorial contributions in Joel’s name may be made to Fisher House Foundation, Inc., 12300 Twinbrook Parkway, Suite 410, Rockville, MD 20852, Fisher House  or C. Wright Pinson Hospital Hospitality House, 214 Reidhurst Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, Hospitality House.  For information, directions or to leave condolence messages for the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.