Edward Thomas Woyshner Jr.

Born on the Jersey Shore in 1941, Ed lived a life defined by resilience, intellect, and curiosity. A survivor of polio in his youth, he developed a lifelong passion for education, science, and the belief that progress is possible through knowledge and innovation. He earned his undergraduate degree from Monmouth University and went on to complete his master’s degree in physics at the University of Massachusetts.

Ed’s career in aerospace was distinguished and impactful. As an aerospace engineer, he contributed to groundbreaking projects such as the Hubble Space Telescope and the Strategic Defense Initiative, also known as the "Star Wars" program. Later as a rocket scientist, he helped launch Titan missiles delivering satellites into space for Lockheed Martin. His work reflected not only technical brilliance but also a deep commitment to advancing humanity’s understanding of the universe.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ed was a man of many passions. He loved cars — especially his Corvettes — and was known for his mechanical curiosity, once taking apart the engine of the family VW Bug just for fun. In his later years, he embraced travel with enthusiasm, exploring with his family places like China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Europe, always seeking new experiences and perspectives.

Ed was also a generous supporter of causes close to his heart, including St. Benedict’s Prep School in Newark, Monmouth University, Doctors Without Borders, the ACLU, and Planned Parenthood. His values were rooted in compassion, justice, and the belief that “Science equals Solutions,” a quote from the Union of Concerned Scientists that perfectly captured his worldview.

He is survived by his sister Tee; his daughter Caryn and her husband Jonathan; his grandchildren Benjamin, Casey, Carson, Randalyn, and Jordan; his son Jeff and his wife Cindy; and his former wife Susan, plus cousins, nieces, and nephews too numerous to mention. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the knowledge he shared, and the ideals he stood for.

A private celebration of life will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s honor to any of the organizations he supported or to a science education or space exploration charity of your choice.