Alan Wayne Maher passed away peacefully at home May 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Wayne was born Dec. 2, 1947, to Arthur and Edith Maher and grew up in Kearny as the oldest of three, with his beloved siblings Neil and Ellen. After graduating from Kearny High School, he attended Seton Hall University. He interrupted his studies to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, where he served his country for two years. After his discharge, he resumed his studies at Seton Hall and earned his degree in mathematics.
Wayne worked for Chubb Institute, teaching computer programming. When he left this position, he became a computer contractor, filling many needed roles within various companies over the years. Wayne ended his career as a high school math teacher at Middlesex Vocational High School. After his retirement, he continued to provide tutoring to many high school students in need of his patient help.
Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Margaret “Peggy” Shaw, and they lived in Oceanport, where they loved raising their four children together, Kristi, Scott, Lisa and Jill. Wayne loved going for runs around the Comanche Drive neighborhood, as well as on the boardwalk and at Holmdel Park. He enjoyed reading, going to amusement parks with his children, tending to his flower garden, and doting on the needs of his beloved family. Wayne was happiest when he was spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. His wife was the center of his entire universe.
Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Edith Maher. He is survived by his loving wife Peggy Maher; his children Kristi Hennelly and husband Ryan of Eatontown, Scott Smack and wife Nicole of Wall Township, Lisa Degnan and husband Joe of Oceanport, and Jill Soldo and husband Brian of Little Silver; his grandchildren (his “little sweetie pies”) James Alan, Shane, Ethan, Isabella, Jonah, Brady, Noah, Jack, Christopher and Ryan; and his siblings, Neil Maher and wife Joellen of Kearny, and Ellen Watson and husband Denis of Randolph; as well as many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation was held June 2 at John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated June 3 at St. Dorothea’s Church, Eatontown. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Liver Foundation.
The article originally appeared in the June 6 – 12, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
