John Dacey

Born on May 13, 1950, and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Jack spent his lifetime building relationships, making friends, and putting his family first. He enjoyed a long and successful career in the automotive paint industry, where his natural ability to talk to anyone and make people feel comfortable contributed to his reputation as an outstanding salesman.

But Jack’s greatest accomplishment was not his career but his marriage to Barbara, the family and the friendships he built throughout his life.

Jack was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara and his stepson, Mark Maggiore. Jack and Barbara shared an incredibly loving relationship and a deep partnership that was at the heart of their family. Her passing was a profound loss for Jack. Their love for one another remained a cherished and enduring part of who Jack was.

Jack leaves behind a loving family: his daughter, Kim Gasper and her husband, Tom; his sons, Erik Dacey and his wife, Amisa; Bill Dacey and his wife, Drea; and Jack Dacey and his partner, Cat; his stepdaughter Robyn Nutter and her husband Jim, and Jennifer Maggiore-Ouellette and her husband, Corbiey. Jack also leaves behind 14 amazing grandchildren and is survived by his brothers, Michael Dacey and his wife, Donna, and Dennis Dacey, as well as his niece and nephew and extended family, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Family was Jack’s greatest source of pride. He wanted to be there for everyone—for the big moments, the holidays, the celebrations, the invitations, and especially the ordinary days in between.

Jack had a gift for friendship. He could talk to anyone, and he rarely met a stranger. His quick wit and sense of humor kept those around him laughing, and his warmth made people feel at ease. For Jack, friendship was not something taken lightly. The people he loved became part of his family, and his loyalty ran deep.

He loved being outdoors, particularly boating and fishing, and could often be found happiest at the beach or out on the water. He enjoyed playing bocce and was a devoted New York Jets fan. Yet, more than any hobby or pastime, Jack loved being surrounded by the people who mattered most to him.

As a husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, Jack was caring, attentive, and present. His family will remember countless moments of laughter, his unwavering support, and his willingness to be there whenever he was needed. He taught those he loved the importance of love and loyalty—values that will continue through the generations of his family.

Jack’s life is found in the people he loved: in his children and grandchildren, in his niece and nephew, in the friendships he cherished, in the laughter he inspired, and in the love he gave so freely.

A Memorial Service will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 685 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey. A brunch celebrating Jack’s life will immediately follow at Artisan’s Restaurant and Brewery, 1171 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, New Jersey.

Jack leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion and friendship. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him, but there is comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, reunited with his beloved wife, Barbara. His love, his laughter, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.