Randall Gabrielan, 82, of Middletown, passed away Oct. 16, 2025. Born and raised in Jersey City, Randy spent his early adult years in Brooklyn before moving to Middletown with his then-wife and two young daughters.
His first career was as an insurance broker supporting the needs of many companies in Manhattan. He started writing local history while still working in the insurance industry, then transitioned to his passion of researching and writing it full-time. He wrote nearly 40 books, primarily about Monmouth County locations, and was appointed historian of both Middletown and Monmouth County.
For several years, he served as the executive director of the Monmouth County Historical Commission and was a member of the commission’s board since leaving that role. He was the president of the Middletown Historical Society and head of the Middletown Library Board for many years. He won numerous awards for his research and dedication to local history, including the M. Claire French Award for leadership in historic preservation, and greatly contributed to the knowledge of and enthusiasm for this historic region.
Randy was a prolific collector of history books, historic postcards, postage stamps and sports memorabilia. It may be apt to think of Randy as a Renaissance man. He had a passion for learning about and experiencing original art and classical music, in particular. He was a weekly attendee at The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic and he enjoyed the Red Bank Chamber Music concerts when held. He would listen to recordings multiple times before attending a concert to help him fully understand and experience the event. The family is grateful that his passing immediately followed his attendance at his favorite opera, Mozart’s “Don Giovanni.” He lived his life fully and with abundant interest and joy.
Randy leaves behind his spouse, Carol Stout, of Middletown; his daughters, Heidi Gabrielan of Holmdel and Patricia Gabrielan of Norwich, New York; and his sister, Carol Gabrielan of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. He was predeceased by his golden retriever, Roland, and the family finds peace knowing they are reunited. Randy is deeply missed by all.
Interment will be private. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial and reception in the coming weeks; further information will be provided at pflegerfuneralhome.com.
The article originally appeared in the November 6 – 12, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
