Cranford Choral Music Patriarch Dies at 85

James R. Lenney, an impactful teacher in the choral community of Cranford for 60 years, passed away on June 16 at Overlook Hospital following a brief illness.

The Church recalls Lenny as “Cranford’s musical patriarch for 60 years.” He began teaching in Cranford in 1952 as a music teacher, Director of Choral Activities and Supervisor of Music for the entire district.

“A tradition of excellence in singing was established under his leadership,” his obituary stated on Trinity Episcopal Church’s website. “Each year numerous students were selected from his choir to participate in the New Jersey All-State Choir, a tradition that continues to this day.”

Lenney retired from Cranford Public Schools in 1988, but continued with his love for music at Kean University from 1998 t0 2001 and held multiple positions at numerous churches before landing at Trinity Episcopal Church in Cranford as the Choirmaster and Organist for the past 30 years.

Lenney was predeceased by his mother, Majorie R. McNamara. He is survived by his life partner James Pulliam.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church on Aug. 9 at 2 p.m.

Gifts to honor his service and memory be made to the James Lenney Choral Excellence Scholarship Fund at Cranford High School.