Ja Chun Koo, 81, of Eatontown, NJ, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on Sunday, March 17, 2025.

Born in Seoul, Korea, she took great pride in her heritage as well as her identity as an American. After obtaining her Undergraduate Degree at Yonsei University in Korea, she moved to the United States without any knowledge of English. Ja Chun later attended Boston University, working towards a Master’s Degree in classical music, an accomplishment she cherished deeply. She moved to Colts Neck in 1983 along with her family.  A devoted full-time mother, she dedicated herself to raising her daughters.  When she was in her 60’s, she moved to Oahu, Hawaii, having never visited before.  A testament to her adventurous spirit, she spent seven beautiful years there, treasuring everything the island had to offer.

She had a passion for golf and enjoyed exploring new experiences. A remarkable cook, she always utilized fresh ingredients, carefully curating her meals, even when cooking just for herself. Ja Chun was also a skilled cellist, a lifelong pursuit that brought her happiness since her younger years.

Her family will fondly remember her strong will, courageous spirit, and “fighter mentality.” She honored her Korean heritage by celebrating important traditions, including Korean New Year and Children’s Day with her grandchildren, and by commemorating her parents on the anniversaries of their passing.

Ja Chun was predeceased by her parents, Young S. Koo, and Bum W. Kim; her brother Koo Ja Ik and her sister Koo Ja Young.

She is survived by her daughters, Erica Kim, of New York, NY, and Erina Watts and her husband Charles Spencer Watts of Shrewsbury, NJ; her grandchildren, Alexson Watts and Connor Watts; as well as a brother, Koo Ja Dong of Long Island, NY, and a sister, Shim Ja Kyung of Connecticut.

For messages of condolence, or to share a favorite memory of Ja Chun, please visit her tribute page at www.HolmdelFuneralHome.com.