Charles A. Brady, Jr. 88, of Point Pleasant, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

A true Legend.  A legacy of LOVE.  A legacy of kindness, of generosity, of caring, of positivity, smiles, and laughs. An example we should all live by.

Charley was born in West Orange, NJ.  He attended St Benedicts Prep, where he took 2nd in the state in wrestling in 1952.  He was a proud graduate and fan of Seton Hall University. 

Charley was a Catholic priest at St. Peter Claver Parish in Montclair and Holy Spirit Parish in Orange from 1966-1972.  By the time he was ordained to the priesthood, he was already a close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr and his wife Coretta.  Charley was an instrumental figure during the Civil Rights movement as documented in his autobiography.  Charley was a leader and inspirational figure in Montclair.  Countless children he helped during this time still credit him with making them the people they are today.  He reached the youth through sports, winning several county, state, and national championships.  He also started the legendary drill team, The Soul Stompers, who performed at events such as the Orange Bowl and the Indianapolis 500.

In 1973, Charley left the Priesthood because of his desire to have a wife and children.  He married the love of his life, Carmie.  Her inspirational story of hope, love, and courage is well documented in Charley’s book, “I Will Live, My Children Need Me.”  We all take comfort knowing they are reunited in a better place.

Charley founded Associated Financial Planners, Inc and was a Certified Financial Planner for over 40 years.  He served hundreds of clients who still loved and adored him as a friend.

A legend in the community, Charley set the example of what it is to give back.  There was no bigger Pt. Boro Panther fan than Charley Brady.  He was a proud member of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh and all their fundraising endeavors.  He was awarded Irishman of the Year in 2008.  He was a big supporter of numerous local organizations and fundraisers.  He was awarded Citizen of the Year by the local Elks along with countless other recognitions.

After Carmie’s passing, Charley and his sons founded The Carmie Brady Foundation in her memory.  Their mission is to help local children suffering from serious illness.  The volunteer only, non-profit has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to sick children in the community.

While proud of his life’s work, nothing brought Charley more joy than that of his being “Chal” to his six amazing grandchildren. His spirit and love will live on in all those who knew and loved him.

Charley was predeceased by his beloved wife Carmie in 2004, and his sister Betty Ann Waldron. He leaves his devoted sons – Matt & girlfriend Gillian and their daughter Charlie, Scott and wife Jenna, and Pat & wife Danielle and children Caitlin, Patrick, Sean, Keira, and Ryan. Charley also leaves his brother Robert, as well as countless relatives and friends whom he considered family (especially all of his “4th sons”).

Visitation will be held at O’Brien Funeral Home, Brick, on Friday, November 17th from 3-7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Sacred Heart Church, Bay Head, on Saturday, November 18th at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to The Carmie Brady Foundation.

Details