Brian Michael Curry, age 58, passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
Born in Rahway, NJ, Brian was the youngest of five children of James and Anne Curry. He attended St. Mary’s Elementary School and graduated from Rahway High School in 1984, where he was a proud member of the swim team and spent his summers lifeguarding at Rahway Pool. An Eagle Scout, Brian carried the values of service and community with him throughout his life.
He earned his accounting degree from Rutgers University and was a proud brother of the Zeta Psi fraternity. After graduation, Brian backpacked through Europe with friends—one of his many adventures—before launching a successful CPA career that began at Arthur Andersen and continued at AT&T, eventually leading to a role at ADP.
Brian met the love of his life, Maria (Toto), when they were just 16 years old. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. They raised four wonderful children—Alyssa, Christopher, Thomas, and Samantha—in Cranford, NJ, a town Brian cherished deeply. Since settling there in 1995, he became an active and joyful part of the community, often seen coaching his kids’ sports teams, participating in annual events, and soaking in all the magic of downtown Cranford—including most recently, the inaugural Cranford St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Family was Brian’s greatest joy and deepest pride. His love for gatherings was legendary. The Curry home was always open—there was always room for one more at the table. Known for their epic parties, especially the famous annual Curry St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Brian and Maria brought people together with warmth, humor, and a whole lot of heart. Brian was also a master mixologist who took great pride in crafting the perfect cocktail—always with a full glass and a full heart.
Brian’s Irish heritage was a cornerstone of his identity, and he embraced it with spirit and pride. And after 32 years of marriage, he often joked that he had become “half Italian” too.
Faith was central to who Brian was. It grounded him, gave him peace, and was woven into the fabric of his daily life. No matter where he was in the world, he found comfort in attending Mass and being part of the Catholic church.
In 2020, after being diagnosed with a brain tumor, Brian embraced life more fiercely than ever. He became even more intentional about joy—living fully, laughing often, and cherishing every moment with the people he loved. He reminded us all that life is precious, and that presence—not perfection—is what matters most.
Some of his happiest days were spent at the Jersey Shore, whether lounging on the beach or relaxing by the lagoon at the family beach house in Ortley Beach. As long as he was surrounded by family and friends, Brian was exactly where he wanted to be.
In the summer of 2023, Brian fulfilled a dream with a trip of a lifetime to Italy, traveling with 15 of his treasured family members. Together, they explored the country, connected with their Italian roots, and created memories that continue to bring smiles and laughter through tears as they remember the man they loved so dearly.
Brian is survived by his devoted wife, Maria, and their four children who were the lights of his life: Alyssa, Christopher, Thomas, and Samantha. He also leaves behind his beloved siblings: Susan (Bob) Wilson, Joan (Mark “Mo”) Brody, Mary Jean (Tom) Madden, and James (Donna) Curry, as well as countless nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors who will never forget his generous heart, magnetic energy, and unwavering love.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Brian’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the American Diabetes Association—two causes close to his heart.
As we begin to navigate a world without Brian, we invite you to honor his legacy by living the way he did: Call a friend just because they crossed your mind. Be fully present. Laugh big. Love even bigger. Take a walk on the beach. Raise your glass. Host the party. And always—always—make room at the table.
Brian Michael Curry was one of a kind, and the world is better for having had him in it.