Edward Goldman, 79, of Lakewood, NJ, formerly of Long Branch, passed away at Leisure Park Assisted Living on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Affectionately known to his family and friends as Uncle Eddie, UE, Uncle Tiny, or simply Tiny, Eddie stood over six feet tall and had a heart to match. His generosity, warmth, and sense of humor made him a beloved figure in the lives of those who knew him.

Eddie proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1969, stationed in Bermuda, where he learned essential engine and firefighting skills—skills he carried with him throughout his personal and professional life. After his service, he returned to Long Branch where he worked as a machinist for many years. In 1970 Eddie joined the Oliver Byron Fire Company within the Long Branch Fire Department. As a volunteer firefighter, he not only fought fires but also served in several leadership roles, including chief, president, and company trustee. Through these years, Eddie made many lifelong friends. His dedication to his community was unmatched, and when the 9/11 tragedy struck, he didn’t hesitate to answer the call. Not knowing if he would ever return, he kissed his mother goodbye, told her he loved her, and simply said, “Mom, I’ve got to go.” His sense of duty and unwavering commitment to serving others was a core part of who he was.

Eddie also had a passion for bowling, joining the Monmouth County Bowling Association in 1970. With the support of friends who helped him hone his skills, his love for the sport grew. He eventually became president, served on the board, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame—not only for his contributions to the community but also for his remarkable achievement of bowling three perfect 300 games.

An avid fisherman, Eddie loved to be out at sea before dawn, chasing fluke and bluefish. He and friends would fill up their freezers with the catch, eating very well for a very long time.

Eddie was a man deeply devoted to his family and friends. He made regular trips to Framingham, Massachusetts, to visit his brother’s family where he would spoil his niece and nephews, who adored him. He was also a dedicated uncle to many, often watching over his friends’ children and even sharing custody of pets with those who affectionately called him “Uncle Tiny.” A soft spoken man of great kindness, Eddie was the definition of reliability, dependability, and loyalty. His quiet strength, combined with his sense of humor, made him someone you could always count on, and he lived his life doing what was right without hesitation.

Eddie was a longtime member of the Congregation Brothers of Israel in Long Branch, maintaining a connection to the community that was particularly meaningful to his late mother, Betty.

He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, William and Cherie Baden of Framingham, MA; his niece, Rachael Baden Roufa (Michael) of Seattle, WA; his nephews, Shlomo Baden of Baltimore, MD, and Lance Baden (Kate) of Upton, MA; as well as many great-nieces and -nephews and countless friends.

Graveside services were held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Brothers of Israel Cemetery on Linden Street, West Long Branch.

Eddie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association http://act.alz.org/goto/Edward-Tiny-Goldman or to Congregation Brothers of Israel in Long Branch, New Jersey.