Harold Charles "Bud" Magathan

Harold "Bud" Magathan, 84, of Neptune, passed away on September 4, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Long Branch and raised in Eatontown, Bud proudly raised his family in Neptune since 1975. He graduated from Long Branch High School in 1958. In 1959, he completed his recruit training with Company 348 at the Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, Illinois. Bud proudly served three years in the United States Navy as an Airedale aboard the USS Saratoga (CVA 60) as part of the US Sixth Fleet during the Vietnam Era, participating in the Mediterranean Cruise. He went on to work at Little Silver Pharmacy, Continental Insurance, and Musical Heritage Society. He always held a special place in his heart for all of his coworkers who became dear friends.
After retirement, Bud continued his passion for volunteering in many organizations and roles. He found the most joy serving his fellow veterans by holding many offices within the American Legion, particularly at Post 346 in Neptune, where he gained lifelong friendships and a second family. Bud was the Post Commander for three years, a member of the color guard, the SAL, and was a dedicated chaplain for both the post and squadron. He enjoyed many years at the annual Wildwood conventions and made special friendships along the way.
In addition to his time as chaplain for the American Legion, Bud also served his church community throughout his life as an acolyte, organist, choir director, and vestry member at St. James Episcopal Church in Eatontown, where he married the love of his life, Margie, in 1975. He also enjoyed serving his community as a member of the Neptune Township Parade Committee and the Joint Veteran's Park Committee. Additionally, Bud was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Red Bank and the Scottish Rites. In 2023, he was honored as Neptune's Hometown Hero for American Legion Post 346. In his free time, he was a skilled pianist with a passion for playing classical music. Bud was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He will never be forgotten, and will always be missed by so many.
Bud is predeceased by his parents, Harold and Mildred Magathan. He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife, Margie Wathen Magathan; his daughters, Marcia Magathan (Andrew Davis Sr.) and Gloria Vitello (Joe Vitello Jr.); his sons, Darren Osborne and Jason Wathen (Jennifer Wathen); his beloved grandchildren, Nikki Vitello, Joseph Vitello, Dominic Vitello, Taylyn Wathen, Kynlee Wathen, Elizabeth Miller, Michael Osborne, and Connor Osborne; his brothers, Ronald Magathan (Marie Magathan) and John Magathan (the late Diana Magathan); as well as many cherished in-laws, Godchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who meant the world to him.
A visitation will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Ely Funeral Home, 3316 Highway 33, Neptune, NJ 07753. An American Legion service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow promptly at 1:30 p.m. at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Road, Wrightstown, NJ 08562.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Heart Association or American Legion Post 346.