Eugene “Gene” Edward Drew, 76, was born on September 25, 1949, in Buffalo, New York, to the late Eugene and Leonora Drew. He was raised in Brooklyn, New York, where he formed lifelong friendships before making Manchester Township, New Jersey, his home for many years.
Gene enjoyed a successful career as an accountant with Merrill Lynch and Bank of America. He was known for his strong work ethic, honesty, loyalty, patience, dependability, and a heart of gold. He was a devoted husband, an incredible father and grandfather, and a man whose love, guidance, and unwavering presence were a source of strength to everyone who knew him.
His greatest accomplishment and deepest joy was the family he built with his beloved wife, Patricia, whom he loved with all his heart and soul. Together they shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Patricia; his children, Jessica, John, and Jeanette; his cherished grandsons, John, who proudly serves in the United States Marine Corps, and Christopher, who were the pride and joy of his life; his beloved dog, JJ; his loving children-in-law, Vanessa Drew, Louis Rutigliano, and Peter Ebner; and many other cherished family members and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.
Gene found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved traveling, spending time at the Beach Club, listening to rock ‘n’ roll music, reading adventure novels, playing Yahtzee and pinochle, sharing laughs with friends, and enjoying the occasional cranberry cocktail. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, and wherever he went, he brought warmth, laughter, and a genuine smile.
Gene passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He faced life’s challenges with remarkable courage, quiet strength, and unwavering dignity, leaving those who loved him with an enduring example of resilience and grace.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Gene will remember not only the life he lived, but the way he lived it—with honesty, kindness, humility, and unconditional love. His legacy will live on through his family, his friendships, and the countless lives he touched. If you knew Gene, you were one of the lucky ones.
A visitation will be held at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S Holmdel Rd, Holmdel NJ 07733 On Monday, July 20, 2026 from 4PM-8PM. A mass will be held on Tuesday, July 212026 at 10:30AM at Church of St. Catharine 108 Middletown Rd, Holmdel NJ 07733.