It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Foley, 86, of Forked River, NJ, who left us on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024. Born in Jersey City, NJ, on August 15, 1938, Donald was the son of the late Lawrence and Agnes Foley. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, known for his quick wit, humor, and kind heart.
Donald was predeceased by his brother Lawrence Foley and his sister Veronica Kitrick. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marie, with whom he shared 63 years of love, laughter, and family. He is also survived by his sister, Agnes Ebert (and her husband Tom), his many nieces and nephews, and his children Donald M. Foley, MaryAnne Arber (and her husband, Mike), Jerry Foley (and his wife, Erika), and Michael Foley (and his wife, Justine), and his cherished grandchildren Colin, Aidan, and Shannon Arber, Ryan, Nicholas, Sean, and Samantha Foley, and Adam and Evan Foley.
A resident of Rutherford, NJ, for nearly 50 years, Donald recently moved to Forked River. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Donald served with the 101st Airborne Division out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky, a time he often spoke of with pride. After his service, Don worked as an electrician apprentice at Erie Lackawanna Railroad before continuing his dedicated service as a Jersey City Police Officer in 1967 until his retirement in 1994. Known to his friends as “Red,” Don’s cheerful personality and love for a good laugh made him a beloved figure in both his professional and personal life.
Beyond his work, Don had a great appreciation for the simpler joys in life. Whether it was cooking, painting walls around the house, or making people laugh, he found happiness in life’s small pleasures. His humor, generosity, and warmth will be missed by all who knew him.
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