Longtime Fair Havenite and Church of the Nativity business manager, John Barry Phelan, passed away on Sept. 17 with his three children at his side.

Born in Newark, Barry lived in Fair Haven since 1978. He graduated from Newark Academy in 1958 and Upsala College in 1966. 

“Known as Grandbear to his extended family, Barry was a wonderful husband and father, loyal friend, devout Catholic, and
devoted Giants fan.
A passionate golfer and fantastic dancer, he was proud to tell you he once got a hole-in-one and danced the spotlight dance on the TV show, American Bandstand, in 1958. 
He had a long successful career at AT&T, where he hired and
mentored countless employees.
After he retired, he became business manager at Church of Nativity for 10 years, where he made many dear lifelong friends.” 

Loved ones of Barry Phelan in his obituary

Barry was predeceased by: his beloved wife of 60 years, Lynn; his parents, Nora and Jack; and sister, Jane.

He is survived by: his daughter Suzanne Caruso and her husband Joe; his son, J. Greg Phelan and his wife Kristina; his daughter Patti Scanlon and her husband Steve; his adored grandchildren, Jamie, Jenny, Jake, Madison, John, Andrew, and Lynelle; and great-grandchildren, Mason and Charlotte. 

A mass will be celebrated on Friday, Sept. 24 at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Nativity, Fair Haven. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Stephy’s Place, 210 West Front Street, Unit 209, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank, has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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