LtCol “JJ” Cuff, USMC (Ret.) succumbed to cancer 23 May 2023 at home in Sanford, NC with wife Dana and sister Candy by his side.

 

Born 29 December 1949. He attended Cherry Hill High School West in NJ, Class of 1968, and excelled in track and field. “JJ” first attended Camden County Community College, then Trent State University, and finally a year at Military Academy Preparatory School (MAPS).

 

“JJ” entered USNA in June 1971 and became a member of the infamous 12th Company “Recon”.  While at USNA, he ran Varsity Track and was President of the Public Relation Committee. June 1975, “JJ” was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Marines. As a Naval Flight Officer, he became an Electronic Counter Measures Officer flying in the EZ-06B Prowler aircraft during deployments aboard aircraft carriers USS Saratoga and USS America. April 1994-April 1996, “JJ” served as Commanding Officer of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron out of MCAS Cherry Point, NC. After surviving two ejections during his flying career and completing 28 years of USMC Service, “JJ” retired and he and his wife, Dana, settled in Sanford, NC.

 

“JJ” spent 13 years as Lee County Toys for Tots Coordinator. He was President of the Board for Stevens Center that supported disabled citizens of Sanford and was a volunteer for Lee County Veteran’s Council for 12 years.  He was also active in Local chapters of the Marine Corps Devil Dogs and Daedalian Fellowship for Military Aviators.  Dana and “JJ” were very active with St. Francis Anglican Church, and still found time to enjoy “RVLIFE” and “Cruising” around the world. 

 

Predeceased by his parents and 3 siblings, “JJ” is survived by: his loving wife, Dana; son Kris (Keri); daughter Mollie (Charlie); granddaughter Olive; grandson Charlie; sister Candy (Derek); and niece Michelle.

 

A memorial service will be held at the USNA Chapel October 2023 followed by inurnment at the Academy’s Columbarium.

 

Whether you knew him as “Cuffer”, “Old Man”, “Rosebud”, or “JJ”, we have all lost a dear friend, devoted husband, father, brother, and mentor who brought many memories to his family and his community.  

 

Memorial services will be Saturday June 17 at VFW, 1500 Veterans Way at 1100 hours.