Philip Cocuzza

Philip Cocuzza, age 91, died peacefully at the Azalea at Hamilton Senior Living Facility in Hamilton, NJ, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

He was born in Newark, NJ, to the late Philip and Julia Cocuzza and was a proud Seton Hall University alumnus. He met the love of his life, Claire, when they were both working at the SeaLand shipping container company in Newark. The majority of his 45+ year career was spent as Executive Director for the New Jersey Home Builders Association and the New Jersey Dental Association, from which he retired in 1999. He was also a founding member of the New Jersey Society of Association Executives, which allowed him to network with other executives across a broad range of industries. His career allowed him and Claire to travel across the country as well as other parts of the world. He loved to regale his friends and family with stories of his experiences.

Phil was predeceased by his wife, Claire, in 2024; his daughter, Ruth Davidson, in 2013; his grandson, Ken Kindlick, in 1999; and his sister, Viola Gerardi, in 1998. He is survived by his daughter, Brenda Hammer (Rick) of Cream Ridge, NJ; his granddaughters, Amanda Guardino (Vincent) of Columbus, NJ, and Emily McGinty of Howell, NJ; and his great-grandchildren, Gianetta and Vincent Guardino, and Harper Lydon.

A private burial service was held on Wednesday, August 27 at Greenwood Cemetery in Hamilton, NJ.

Letters of condolences may be sent to the family at Saul Colonial Home.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ.