He was known as a dedicated, skilled physician to generations of families. He was known as a beacon of wisdom, charm, compassion and humor. He was known as a devoted husband and dad. He was longtime Rumson resident Dr. Harry Mason Swartz, “Dr. Harry” to most; and he passed away on Dec. 27 at 88.

The news of Dr. Harry’s death prompted a flood of messages of thanks and tribute on social media, his obituary and talk around the towns and at his funeral. The community conversations told the story of a man who knew his purpose in life and embraced it with a 24-carat sparkle, laugh and commitment to care. While his stellar professional reputation made him an unwitting shining star, Dr. Harry’s legacy was more about the star’s unique twinkle.