Jimmy Urban – DJ at the Prelude – Facebook
In Loving Memory of James Anthony Urban who passed away on February 25, 2017.
Published in Trentonian Feb. 25 to Mar. 4, 2018
James Anthony Urban, age 67, of Trenton, passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at Capital Health, Helene Fuld Hospital after a long battle with heart and kidney problems. He was born in Trenton to the late John and Gwendolyn Urban and attended SS Peter & Paul Elementary, Cathedral High & Trenton Central High. Jim retired in 2005 after 35 years employed by the State of New Jersey, Dept. of Education. Most recently he worked in the NJ State Library and as a Media Technician with the Library for the Blind & Handicapped. Jim also worked as a DJ for many years in Trenton, New Hope & New York. He had a lifelong love of records, jukeboxes, vintage record players, and roller coasters. He was a loving son, brother & friend who will be deeply missed. Jim is survived by his beloved sister Gwen Johnson of Cream Ridge and by his many cousins including his closest cousins Tom Brown of Yardville, Bonnie Jean Eick of Lambertville, and Elaine Watson of Tennessee. Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, March 5, 2017, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Tilghman Funeral Home (TilghmanFH.com), located at 52 Main St., New Egypt NJ 08533. Inurnment will be held on a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Hamilton. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jim’s memory to the Meals on Wheels of Mercer County, 320 Hollowbrook Dr., Ewing NJ 08638.
Published in The Trentonian on Mar. 3, 2017
From Jimmy’s Facebook:
This is concerning the DJ Years! I started playing records in Trenton at the Shamrock Bar in 1972. I was invited up to the Original Cartwheel with the Gravel Floor in 1973. In the latter part of the year I was asked to work the Original Prelude with the Drag Shows. In 1975 I worked at January’s for around 9 months, then went back to the New Prelude till the mid 80’s. In between the above locations I also worked Zadar’s, Ice Palace 57(NYC), Zodiac, Casa Lido, 40 West and the Baron.
Gwen Johnson – Sister
This story was relayed by Larry Korona, Jimmy Urban’s friend since Kindergarten I thought it would be of interest to you
At age 19, the jukebox died one busy night at the Shamrock Inn, Trenton. All having a good time dancing, disappointed, Jimmy hopped into his car and returned with a big stack of the latest 45’s and swiped his sister, Gwen’s, Webcor stereo. The one with particleboard laminated oilcloth detachable speakers. We partied the night away, requesting our favorite releases. The rest is history. Jimmy went on to play several clubs and was the favorite DJ for 3 decades. He mentored and taught the best DJ’s how to spin and mix. All while working full time for the State of NJ. Jimmy’s lifelong love of disco and DJ’ing all started because the Shamrock’s jukebox died!
Gwen Johnson – Sister
posted this on my timeline but since the Prelude meant so much to him want to post here for those who did not see it. Today is one year since my brother Jimmy Urban went to Heaven. Jimmy was upbeat and always wanted to make everyone happy – when he was a DJ, worked for the State, and everyone he came in contact with. He had a quick mind and I always told him he was funnier than a comedian. He was very generous to friends and family, he left waitresses twice what he should have, I could go on and on. I can’t tell you how much I miss him but want to honor what he was – the best brother and person that anyone could know.
Jerry Kovac He was a great friend, and an all-around great person. He taught me how to DJ, so I learned from the best! Please keep an eye on us from the: Bubble” in heaven. You are sadly missed.
Friends with: Mary Margaret
The Magic of The Prelude
George Rojas After you entered those doors, a whole different world opened up, lost in the music. Jimmy made that possible.
