Harry E. Brown, 76, originally from Gloucester City, NJ, passed away on May 21, 2023 surrounded by loved ones in his home in Belvidere, NJ.
Harry was born in Audubon, NJ on December 16, 1946, son of the late Donald and Helen L. (Stainker) Brown. He was raised in Gloucester City and attended public schools there along with his older brother, the late Donald D. Brown. Harry is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Nancy M. (Whitley) Brown and the couple had 3 cherished children, Heather L. (Brown) Durr (Kenneth L. Durr), Harry E. Brown, Jr (called to Heaven after birth), and Nancy “Beth” (Brown) Viglianco (Michael C. Viglianco). The pride of Harry’s life were his 5 grandchildren who all lived locally and with whom he shared a close bond: Benjamin B. Durr, Andrew L. Durr, Madeline W. Durr, Sarah D. Viglianco and Samuel A. Viglianco. Harry could often be seen attending their sporting events, concerts and ceremonies delighted by their accomplishments.
In addition to his immediate family, Harry is survived by his sister-in-law, Naree K. Brown and nephew and niece, Peter D. Brown and Rebecca K. Brown, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Frederick H. Whitley, Jr. and Marian M. Whitley, and nephews and niece, Scott D. Whitley, Brent D. Whitley, Michele L. Whitley and their families.
Harry graduated with a BA from Rutgers University in 1969 and attended both the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School and the U.S.A.F Graduate School during his 31 year career at Picatinny Arsenal and was a member of the Army Acquisition Corps. More recently, he was employed for 5 years as the Assistant Superintendent for the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission.
Harry was a patriot and civil servant through and through. He shared his passion for our great nation and his talents by serving on numerous boards and organizations. During his 42 year residence in Hackettstown, NJ, Harry served on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, H.M.U.A., was a Trustee for the Free Public Library (Hackettstown and Belvidere) and served as Trustee for Warren County Community College. He also devoted his time to the Warren County Municipal and Charitable Conservancies Trust Fund Committee and until present, was Commissioner of the Warren County Board of Elections. Harry believed wholeheartedly in conservative Christian values and was a member of several Republican clubs and committees on a local, county and state level.
Despite all of these accomplishments, what people remember most about Harry was his razor sharp intellect and his ability to speak on any manner of topics, especially history. His ability to recall important dates, geopolitical facts and how they pertain to modern times is a testament to his lifelong love of learning and natural curiosity. Harry never met a stranger, only a friend he hadn’t yet met. He could effortlessly learn the life story of someone in the grocery line and somehow make a connection. He loved engaging with people and people loved meeting him.
Visitation will be from 11 AM until 2 PM with a memorial service to follow on Saturday, June 3rd, at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High St., in Hackettstown NJ. Interment will follow at the Belvidere Cemetery, Oxford St., Belvidere NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Warren County Community College Foundation (memo section: Harry E. Brown Memorial Scholarship), 475 Route 57 West, Washington, NJ 07882.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840
For those wishing to leave online condolences, please visit www.cochranfuneral.com
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Steve Cutler says
May 23, 2023 at 7:44 pmVery sorry to hear of Harry’s passing. He will always be remembered as a great guy, terrific neighbor, and wonderful family man who was always willing to help others throughout the years. His dedicated service to the community will always remain his hallmark. Rest in peace, Harry, you will be missed.
Paul & Robin Wallace says
May 23, 2023 at 8:30 pmNancy, & Family
Robin and I were saddened to hear of Harry’s passing, and know any words of ours will fall far short of easing the pain of his loss.
I am forever grateful to Harry & you Nancy for allowing him to be our Campaign Manager in our Council runs.
Always enjoyed our conversations, and will always remember fondly his quip at our Wedding “ They said it would be a warm day in January before Wallace got married”.
May our FATHER in Heaven comfort You all as only HE can, through Jesus Christ Our LORD.
GOD Bless
Paul & Robin Wallace
Jennifer Biller says
May 23, 2023 at 10:36 pmHeather, Ken, and family, our hearts are hurting with you during this difficult time. Your dad was such a kind man. I remember the wonderful chats we had the few times we were together. You and your sister were blessed with a wonderful father, and I know you and the kids will feel his absence. We are praying for strength for you all. Love and prayers, The Billers- Chad, Jennifer, and Parker
Gina Renner says
May 23, 2023 at 10:48 pmI had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Brown a few years ago when gathering at a Viglianco family celebration. I remember what a gentleman he was and enjoyed chatting with him. Sending heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Brown and all the family. God bless you all. Sincerely, Gina Renner
Rob & Jacquie Petersen says
May 23, 2023 at 11:26 pmNancy and family, our heartfelt condolences. Godspeed.
Joe and Janet Lake says
May 24, 2023 at 12:03 amWe are so sorry Nancy. Your loss is Heaven’s gain. You will see him again. God grant you and your children comfort and peace.
Carla & Mark Sauvageau says
May 24, 2023 at 1:25 amWe have no words to express our condolences. We just wished we got together this past year. Harry was a good man & so sorry for you, Heather & Beth. . He loved his family & grandchildren. Harry was a true patriot & we will miss him. Our hearts & love go out to all his family. 💔
Gary J. Kuipers, Sr. says
May 24, 2023 at 1:55 pmNancy please accept our sincere condolences. Harry was truly a gentleman and a patriot. I enjoyed our working relationship with the party and both you and Harry were dedicated to the cause. May God be with you and the family.
Dorothy says
May 24, 2023 at 8:00 pmNancy and family, so sorry to read of Harry’s passing. Prayers for all of you.
Sergio Qureshi says
May 25, 2023 at 4:10 amNancy and family, I’m so sorry to hear this sad news of Harry going to Heaven. Harry was such an awesome person and always a pleasure to talk to. He always bought candy or magazines to help my kids with their school fundraisers. Heaven is much brighter with you Harry. God bless you on your journey to Heaven Harry and prayers for your family and friends.
Bela Shah says
May 25, 2023 at 1:42 pmBeth and family, so sorry to hear the sad news of your dad’s passing. Please know that you and your family our in my thoughts.
Ruth Scott says
May 25, 2023 at 2:40 pmDear Nancy and Family,
Please accept our sincerest condolences on passing of your husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather. Harry was the definition of “gentleman”.
May you all be comforted by your many wonderful memories.
Sincerely,
Ruth & Russell Scott and Maureen Ericson
Ellen Nerbak says
May 26, 2023 at 2:42 pmMy deepest condolences to Nancy and her family. Harry will be remembered as a man who was always a caring and loving man.
Gail Riker says
May 27, 2023 at 12:12 amNancy and family
My heart hurts.. Harry was such a wonderful guy.. he left us too soon. Knowing Harry he was just needed for yet another higher purpose! God Speed Harry.. I won’t say goodbye I’ll say see ya later because I will!
Beth Piburn says
May 27, 2023 at 7:54 pmNancy & Girls–Your hearts are breaking now and they will be for awhile. Harry was a wonderful friend, father & husband as well as Godfather. We so enjoyed our visits together (Never enough, always too short). I’m so thankful I was able to see him this month to be able to say “Good-by”). Damn, can’t see through the tears. See you soon. Beth
Rich and Nancy Stryker says
May 28, 2023 at 9:16 pmNancy and girls,
Nancy and I were so sad to learn of Harry’s passing. I am just glad someone reached out to us, as we now live in Alabama. Harry was my first boss when I came to Picatinny Arsenal in 1984 right out of college. It was his mentoring and sincere love for his job that provided the foundation for my 35 year career. Harry was a special person and wonderful friend. We know how much family meant to him. Our deepest condolences.
Rich and Nancy Stryker
Joe and Terry Steinhardt says
May 30, 2023 at 9:49 pmOur condolences and prayers to you and family.
Debbie Denecour Dubord says
June 1, 2023 at 1:12 amSending my deepest and most sincere condolences to Mr. Brown’s family and friends. I always enjoyed seeing him in the neighborhood and having a nice conversation. He was always so kind and fun to talk to. May you Rest In Peace, Mr. Brown🙏🙏🙏
Steve Lay says
June 1, 2023 at 11:35 pmDear Nancy, Heather and Beth,
Vivian and I are honored to know your family. Harry was a wonderful guy and I always enjoyed our conversations and his sense of humor. Harry did so much for the town, yet his priority was always his family. We were saddened to read of his death. He will be greatly missed.
Steve and Vivian Lay
Kathy Miers says
June 3, 2023 at 12:11 pmTo the Brown Family-So very sorry for your loss. May your wonderful memories give you peace in the coming days.
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