John M. O'Dwyer-Woods

John Michael O'Dwyer-Woods, a devoted family man, proud United States Army veteran, respected Police Captain, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026.

Born on January 8, 1932, and raised in Newark, New Jersey, John proudly served his country during the Korean War. Following his military service, he dedicated his life to protecting and serving his community through a distinguished career with the North Arlington Police Department, rising through the ranks to retire as a Police Captain.

Among his many accomplishments, John was especially proud to be the first police officer from the North Arlington Police Department to attend and graduate from the FBI National Academy, a testament to his professionalism, leadership, and lifelong commitment to serving others with honor, fairness, and integrity.

John and his beloved wife, Joan, made their home in North Arlington, New Jersey, where they raised their family and shared 36 wonderful years of marriage until her passing. He was later blessed to find love again and shared nearly 20 happy years with his wife, Irene, who also predeceased him.

Above all else, John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

He is survived by his loving children, Steve; John; Rob and his wife, Sheryl; and Kelly and her husband, Anthony. He was also a devoted stepfather to Dennis and his wife, Janice; Gary and his wife, Helen; and Dana Rea and her husband, Romeo, whom he welcomed into his family with love. He is also survived by his brother, Michael, and many loving nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

John was predeceased by his wives, Joan and Irene; his beloved grandson, Robert; and his sister, Kathleen Nigro.

He was a proud Pop to Robbie and his wife, Samantha; Amanda and her husband, Michael; Kaitlin; Anthony; and Garrett. One of John's greatest joys was becoming "GG John Michael" to his cherished great-grandchildren, Bobby, Logan, Wyatt, Emily, Cooper, and Wade, who brought him endless pride and happiness. He was also a loving step-grandfather to DJ and Danny, Louis, Rene, Jason, and Kyle.

Outside of his career, John loved spending time camping with his boys, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Whether serving his country, protecting his community, or simply enjoying time with his family, he lived a life centered on love, service, and family.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that John has been reunited with Joan and his beloved grandson, Robert, and all those who went before him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, fellow officers, and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ. Memorial Mass and Military Honors to follow, 12:30 PM at St. Mary's Church, Barnegat, NJ. (www.BarnegatFH.com) 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in John's memory.

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