Remembering Jim Abma Sr.: A Legacy of Faith, Farming, and Family in Wyckoff
photos courtesy of Abma Farm
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Wyckoff NJ, The community of Wyckoff, New Jersey, is mourning the loss of a true local pillar. James “Jim” Alan Abma Sr., third-generation farmer and co-owner of the beloved Abma’s Farm, passed away on May 3, 2026, at the age of 62.
Jim wasn’t just a farmer; he was a visionary who transformed a small wholesale egg operation into a landmark destination for families across Bergen and Morris counties. His life was a testament to his belief that farming was “more of a lifestyle than an occupation.”
A Life Rooted in Land Stewardship
Born in Ridgewood and raised on the very soil he would spend his life tending, Jim’s calling was clear from childhood. Long before he could drive, he was already raising chickens and tending his own vegetable rows. After graduating from Delaware Valley College in 1985 and marrying his high school sweetheart, Pamela, he dedicated four decades to evolving the family legacy.
Building the Abma’s Farm We Love
If you’ve enjoyed a hayride, picked a pumpkin, or visited the petting zoo in Wyckoff, you’ve experienced Jim’s handiwork. His innovations were vast:
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Agricultural Expansion: He grew the farm’s production to over 150 varieties of vegetables.
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Greenhouse Creativity: Jim’s custom-designed container gardens became a signature of his artistic eye for horticulture.
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Sustainability Pioneer: He introduced advanced water conservation methods and a large-scale composting site to regenerate the fields for future generations.
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Community Connection: Alongside his wife, he created the petting zoo to help local families connect with agriculture in a hands-on way.
A Leader for New Jersey Farmers
Jim’s influence extended far beyond the farm gates. He was a steady advocate for the agricultural community, serving on the Bergen County Board of Agriculture and the NJ Farm Bureau. His excellence was recognized statewide, earning him the NJ Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1991 and the Distinguished Service Award from the NJ State Board of Agriculture in 2024.
Honoring a “Good and Faithful Servant”
While his professional achievements were many, his family remembers him most as a devoted husband, father (“Poppy”), and teacher. His legacy is etched into every greenhouse and field at Abma’s Farm.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Dear Friends and Valued Customers,
Following our recent announcement, we want to take a moment to thank you for the many kind messages, thoughts, and support shared with our family and team. It has meant a great deal to all of us during this time.
As we gather to honor Jim Abma Sr. and reflect on his life and legacy, Abma’s Farm will be observing special hours on
Monday, May 11. Our Wyckoff location will close at 12:00 PM, and our Hillsborough location will be closed for the entire day.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and support as we take this time together. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday.
With Heartfelt Thanks,
The Abma Family
Service Information & Special Hours
To honor Jim’s life, Abma’s Farm will observe special hours on Monday, May 11:
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Wyckoff Location: Closing early at 12:00 PM.
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Hillsborough Location: Closed all day.
You can read the full obituary and share your condolences through the Vander Plaat Funeral Home.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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