Eugene James Brennan

Eugene “Gene” James Brennan, 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday September 15, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on February 11, 1938, in Darby PA, Eugene lived a life centered on family, love and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. As a young man Gene proudly served his country in the US Naval Forces, working in communications on a Navy Destroyer stationed out of Philadelphia, PA. He supported the family he loved with his career as a Computer Programmer with Western Union for over 30 years.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents John & Marian Brennan, his brothers Jack, Bob and Bernie and their loving wives Lynne, Judy and Gloria, his nephews Bobbie & Michael and his wife Gail and their daughter Kerry Marian. He is survived by his children Colleen and her husband Joe, Michelle and her husband Mike, his sons Keith and Sean and his wife Nicole. He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Joleen, Jay, Bridget and Delaney, great grandchildren Savannah, Hunter and Leo, his beloved in- laws, and many nieces & nephews, all who held a special place in his heart. His love, guidance and quiet strength will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Gene devoted his personal life to coaching & teaching children. He coached basketball for over 40 years with local organizations including the “Catholic Youth Organization” and township recreation teams. He coached youth soccer and softball while raising his family. The most important lesson he shared with the young people he mentored was to play with integrity, heart and supreme sportsmanship. Every child Gene coached felt heard, valued and capable of success.

A Memorial Mass & Celebration of Life will be held on November 7, 2026. A Catholic mass will be held at 10 am at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 17 Pompton Ave, Pompton Plains, NJ. Mass will be followed by a celebration of life at the High Crest Lake Lodge, 112 High Crest Drive, West Milford, NJ. Everyone is welcome to attend and remember a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Eugene’s memory to The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research and in honor of Gene's great grandson Leo to Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer and specify: Germ Cell Tumor