John G. McCormack

Celebrating the Distinguished Service and Lifelong Dedication of a Law Enforcement Leader
John G. McCormack, 82, of Manalapan, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026. Born in Matawan, New Jersey, John was raised in Monmouth County and graduated from Matawan High School in 1962. He later made Manalapan his home, where he lived and served his community for many years.
John dedicated more than 35 years to law enforcement and security, most notably serving as the highly respected Chief of Police of Manalapan Township. His distinguished and progressive career was marked by an unwavering commitment to education, integrity, and public service. A true advocate for lifelong learning, John completed more than 225 law enforcement training courses and earned 175 college credits, setting an extraordinary example of professionalism and excellence.
John proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1967, completing a full tour of duty in Da Nang, Vietnam. His military service reflected his courage, discipline, and deep sense of duty.
In September 1997, John was appointed Chief of Police by the governing body of Manalapan Township. Under his leadership, the Manalapan Police Department rose to prominence as one of the leading police agencies in the county. Through innovative community policing initiatives and creative problem-solving, Chief McCormack strengthened relationships between the department and the community it served. His active involvement in professional organizations and local programs fostered trust, communication, and mutual respect among colleagues, officers, and residents alike. After his distinguished career as Chief of Police, John went on to become Director of the Monmouth County Police Academy for 8 years.
Beyond his professional achievements, John was deeply committed to community service and mentoring others in law enforcement and public service. His legacy of leadership, dedication, and compassion will be remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him and working alongside him.
John was predeceased by his parents, James and Amanda McCormack, and his stepdaughter, Deborah Wallis. He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Gail McCormack; his son, John McCormack, and his wife, Elizabeth; his stepdaughters, Janice Deisler and her husband, John, and Donna Wallis and her spouse, Amy Kenter; his sister, Patricia Hauser; his cherished grandsons, Trevor Pearson, Ryan Pearson, and Kyle Diesler; his great-grandchildren, Oliver, Madison and Ayden Pearson and Elliot Deisler; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, January 15, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Freeman Manalapan Marlboro Funeral Home, 344 Route 9 North, Manalapan. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Old Tennent Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to the American Heart Association. Condolences and directions may be found at www.freemanfuneralhomes.com.