Obituary of James W. Malibashka

James W. “Jim” Malibashka, 77, of Manchester passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Ocean Medical Center. He was born in New York City and had lived in Freehold before settling in Manchester in 2004. Jim’s career in liquor sales greatly enhanced his appreciation for fine wine, a passion he carried throughout his life. He was known for being very fashionable and traveled extensively with his wife, Cecelia, by his side. For Jim, a perfect day consisted of a bottle of wine and a Cuban cigar while watching the Yankees win. A true enthusiast of the game of golf, he was affectionately known by many as everyone’s favorite uncle. He was also an active member of the wine club at Renaissance at Manchester and the Plate and Palette Club.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Florence and Walter Malibashka. He is survived by his wife, Cecelia Malibashka; two brothers, William Malibashka and Dennis Malibashka and his wife, Barbara; six wonderful nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.

A gathering of friends will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM.  For those that cannot attend in person, the family invites you to participate via Webcast, HERE. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to Popcorn Park Zoo, P.O. Box 43, Forked River, NJ 08731 and Hackensack Meridian Hospice, 1 Wellbrook Place, Iselin, NJ 08830. For information, directions or condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.