Patrick McElroy

Patrick James McElroy, known affectionately as "Pat" to his friends and family, was a kind and selfless man to all who knew him. He passed away suddenly at the age of 61 on November 9, 2025, in Toms River, NJ, surrounded by his family.
Pat was born on January 28, 1964 in West Orange, NJ, and lived there until the age of 10. He then moved with his family to Livingston, NJ where he graduated from Livingston High School. Pat shared a loving marriage of 30 years with his beloved wife, Kathy. Together, they raised two beautiful children, Molly and Patrick, who he adored. He is predeceased by his parents, Philip and Margaret (Raftery) McElroy, as well as Marie McElroy. They instilled in him the virtue of hard work that he carried throughout his life.
Pat was a cherished brother to Phil McElroy, Terry (McElroy) Smith, John McElroy, Tim McElroy, Mary (McElroy) Hazel, Brian McElroy, Diane Cuccolo, and Dawn Earley. He held a special place in his heart for his late sisters Eileen (McElroy) Hurne, and Bonnie Politte, as well as his late brothers Wayne and Guy Fenner. Pat had many nieces and nephews. He felt especially honored to be godfather to nephews Michael McElroy, and Phalen Hazel, and his niece Maggie Leach. All of them found in him a loving uncle who was always ready with a word of encouragement and a warm embrace.
Professionally, Pat dedicated many years of service to the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority from 1994 to 2003 and continued his commitment to the community at the Brick Township Department of Public Works until his passing. He was also privileged to work alongside his closest and dearest friend, Jim Kathenes, at Drum Point Marina in Brick Township for almost 40 years. It was his second home away from home. He cherished every minute he was there. He loved being by the water, and the boats.
Pat's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding him in every action and decision. He was an usher during Sunday mass at St. Dominic's Church. Pat also became involved with the Cub Scouts, and the Boy Scouts of America when his son Patrick wanted to join. He felt this was the perfect experience father and son could have together. He was Cub Master of Pack 92 and later as Troop Master of Troop 92 in Toms River. He guided Patrick to receiving his Eagle Scout, and he shaped the lives of young men, imparting values of integrity, respect, and faith.
Those who knew Pat would say his greatest love, after his family, was his home. His backyard was his haven, a place where he found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether it was mowing the lawn, playing cornhole with the kids, throwing the ball with his faithful dog Maple, flipping burgers on the grill or enjoying the laughter and stories shared during family gatherings. He was a jokester, and found joy when he could make others laugh. There is a permanent void, and he will be greatly missed.