Vernon Ralph Magee Jr.

Vernon Ralph Magee Jr., fondly known as Ralph, 84, of Manchester, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at Complete Care at Madison in Matawan, New Jersey. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to those around him.

Ralph was born on July 22, 1942, in South Amboy, New Jersey, son of the late Vernon Ralph Magee and Mary (Mauro) Magee. Ralph grew up in Matawan, New Jersey, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life and where he later raised his children. After marrying Mary Lee July 24, 2003, the couple made their home in Lakewood, New Jersey. Shortly after in 2004 they moved to Florida, where they spent 23 years together before returning to New Jersey a year ago.

Ralph dedicated many years of his working life to Dupont, where he retired from a career in Research and Development. He was respected for his commitment, his strong work ethic, and the pride he took in doing his job well. After retirement, he continued to stay active by starting a landscaping business, a venture that reflected both his love of working outdoors and his natural ability to care for and improve the spaces around him. He was also a proud United States Army veteran, having honorably served his country. He especially loved gardening and golfing, and he found great joy in spending time outdoors. He also loved to travel, and he embraced the opportunities to see new places and make lasting memories along the way. Whether tending to a garden, enjoying a round of golf, or setting out on a trip, Ralph approached life with appreciation and enthusiasm. His interests reflected a man who valued beauty, activity, and the simple pleasures that make life meaningful.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lee (Valanzano) Magee, his loving daughters, Erin Magee and Rachelle Olson; his stepson, Michael Valanzano, and his wife, Jacqueline; his cherished grandchildren, Nathaniel Olson, Christopher Elmer, and Daniella Valanzano; his brother, Larry Magee, and his wife, Elaine; his sisters, Judy Joseph and Debbie Houlihan; his cherished cousin, Frank Petitti; and several treasured nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was also preceded in death by Charlene Thee Magee, the mother of his daughters, whose memory remained part of his family’s story.

Those who knew Ralph will remember him as a loving man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He was steady, kind, and devoted, and he leaves behind a legacy of family, hard work, and cherished memories. His life touched many, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., 3269 State Highway/ Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey, 07730. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at 10:00 AM, at Saint Benedict Roman Catholic Church, 165 Bethany Road, Holmdel, New Jersey 07733. Ralph’s entombment will follow at Saint Joseph Cemetery Mausoleum, 360 Broadway Keyport, New Jersey 07735. In lieu of flowers, donations in loving memory of Ralph may be made to The St. Francis Breadline, at www.stfrancisbreadline.org.  For more information, directions or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.shorepointfh.com.

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