In Memoriam: Longtime Rumsonite, Educator, Former Oceanic Fire Co. Chief, Charley Shay Sr., 85

Longtime Rumsonite, educator, former Oceanic Fire Company chief, Charley Shay Sr., passed away peacefully at home on April 15, surrounded by family.

Born on Jan. 6,1941 at Monmouth Medical Center, after a short drive up Ocean Avenue, Charley’s many years were spent in Rumson.

“Charley attended Holy Cross Grammar School and Red Bank Catholic High School (RBC). He graduated from Monmouth College, completed graduate school at Rutgers University, and attended the Rutgers doctorate program. While at RBC, Charley earned varsity letters for football, basketball, and baseball.

“He married in 1965 and shared a wonderful life with his wife of 61 years. Charley loved the town of Rumson. He was a beloved educator, brought about the Environmental Science program at Stokes State Forrest, was appointed the leader of Rumson Community Education, and created other educational programs at Forrestdale School. Charley served as chief of the Oceanic Fire Department, was president of the Library Board, president of M.C.A.S.B.O., and president of the Root Beer and Checker Club …

“Charley is a man who will be greatly missed.”
Loved ones of Charley Shay Sr. in his obituary

Charley is survived by: his wife, Ann Marie; his son, Charles Shay Jr., and wife, Brooke; his daughter, Jennifer, and her husband, Stuart; and his grandchildren, Connor, Maggie, Kieran, JR , and Gavin.

There will be a celebration of Charley’s life to be announced at a later date.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home