John James Mackin III, 76, of Long Branch, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, surrounded by his loved ones. 

Born on December 14, 1949, in Irvington, New Jersey, John lived a life defined by service, strength, loyalty, and an unwavering sense of humor. After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School, he honorably served in the United States Navy on the USS Robert L. Wilson from 1968 through 1972 as a Sonar Technician. After serving his country, John began a 35-year career at Merck Pharmaceuticals as a Computer Systems Analyst and earned an Associate’s Degree from Middlesex County College. 

While serving in the Navy, John was stationed in Naples, Italy- a place that would forever change the course of his life. It was there that he met the beautiful girl who would become his beloved wife. Their meeting was fate- a love story that began across the ocean, and from that moment on, their lives were intertwined in a bond that would endure a lifetime. John and Patty shared 50 wonderful years of marriage and together built a home filled with warmth, traditions, and lasting memories. He cherished family and friends and found immense joy in being a loving husband, father, and Nonno. 

John was best known for his quick wit, playful spirit, and a heart as big as his sense of humor. He had a remarkable gift for making people laugh. Whether through a well-timed one-liner, a classic joke, or a story told with perfect comedic flair, he brought laughter and lightness to every room he entered. His humor was just not entertainment- it was how he connected, comforted, and lifted others. 

John was a member of the Long Branch IAMA, Elks, and VFW, where he could always be found at the pool table showing off his tricks with a beer in hand. His passions were traveling, the beach, playing golf, and spending time at Monmouth Park Racetrack and the Borgata in Atlantic City. John leaves behind a legacy of joy, reminding us all to find humor in the little things and to share kindness freely. Though he may be gone, his laughter echoes on in every smile he inspired.

He is predeceased by his parents Florence and John James Mackin, Jr., sister Lynne Hedenberg, aunt and uncle Joan and Bob Haggblom, and brother-in-laws Peter Mazza and Edward Hatfield.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Patricia Mazza Mackin; his two beautiful daughters, Inez with her husband Thomas Bruno and Angela with her husband Joseph Scalpati; six beloved grandchildren Nicolas, Nina, Lorenzo, Luca, Leonardo, and Giovina; his siblings Marlene Canavera and Bruce Mackin; sibling-in-laws Ralph Mazza, Angela Mazza, Angelica Hatfield and Clelia Dalia along with many loving nieces and nephews. 

A Mass of Remembrance will be offered on Saturday, March 28, at 10:30am at St. Jerome Roman Catholic Church, 254 Wall Street, West Long Branch, followed by a time to pay respects to the family directly after mass.

In lieu of traditional remembrances, John’s family asks with gratitude that donations in his memory be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) or St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org). In honor of John, take a moment to make someone laugh today. It’s what he did best and what he would have loved most. 

For messages of condolence, or to share a favorite memory of John, please visit his page of tribute at www.Woolley-Boglioli.com