Gregory Buontempo, Sr., aged 83, of Lavallette, NJ, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on March 5, 2024. His departure was unexpected, leaving his family and a wide circle of friends and community profoundly saddened. Born to Nancy and Sal Buontempo in Newark, NJ, on March 25, 1940, Gregory was a man whose life was defined by devotion to his family, commitment to education, and a deep faith that guided his every action.

Growing up in Newark alongside his brother Vito, Gregory attended Barringer High School before pursuing his passion for education at Newark State College (Kean University) where he graduated in 1962. His academic journey continued at Seton Hall University, where he earned a Masters in Administration and Supervision in 1965. It was this passion for education that shaped his career, starting as an Industrial Arts Teacher in 1962, evolving into a pivotal role as Director of Vocational Education at the State Department of Education in Trenton, NJ, until 1989, and culminating as the Business Administrator at Center School in Highland Park, NJ, before his retirement in 2010.

Gregory’s heart found its true counterpart in Mary Frances Minasian of Belleville, NJ, whom he married on June 30, 1963. Together, they embarked on a journey that took them from Nutley, NJ, to North Brunswick, NJ, where they laid down roots and raised a family that would grow to include three sons: Gregory Jr., Michael, and Matthew. Gregory was a pillar of strength and love, coaching Little League Baseball, and was actively involved in the “Football Father’s” in North Brunswick. He embodied virtues of unconditional love, strength of spirit, and generosity, especially towards his family and grandchildren, focusing on their dreams and future endeavors.

A devout Roman Catholic, Gregory’s faith was not just a belief but a way of life. He joined the Holy Name Society in 1999 and served his parish, St. Bonaventure (now St. Pio’s) in Lavallette, NJ, as a full-time usher, a Eucharistic Minister, living his faith through service and example. Gregory’s zest for life extended beyond his family and faith. An avid sports fan, he cherished the time spent at NY Giants and NY Yankees games, collecting memorabilia, and sharing these moments with friends and family. His hobbies, including fishing, golf, woodworking, and bocce—where he and Mary celebrated wins in the Lavallette Bocce tournament—reflected his love for life and active engagement in the community. Gregory also found joy in bringing people together through his Fantasy Football League, serving as a commissioner who fostered camaraderie and community spirit.

Predeceased by his son Michael, Gregory’s legacy of love, strength, and service lives on through his wife, Mary Buontempo; his sons, Gregory Jr. (Ann Marie) and Matthew (Serena); his brother, Vito (Natalie); and his adored grandchildren Amanda, Michael Gregory, Peter, and Michael Anthony. Friends and family are invited to honor Gregory’s memory during visitation on Sunday, March 10th, from 2:00-6:00 PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 11th, at 10:00 AM at St. Pio of Pietrelcina, 103 Washington Ave, Lavallette, with interment to follow at Holy Cross Burial Park, Jamesburg.

In Gregory’s memory, the family requests that contributions be made to St. Jude’s Hospital www.stjude.org (http://www.stjude.org/) in lieu of flowers, reflecting his lifelong commitment to generosity and helping others, and to share memories of Greg on our memorial website. Gregory’s remarkable life journey, marked by dedication, love, and faith, leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His departure comes as a great shock and is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who were part of the community. The family deeply appreciates your support during this difficult time.