Obituary of John Lawrence Sweeney

John Lawrence Sweeney, 63, peacefully passed away on August 5, 2025. A devoted husband, father, friend, and community leader, John’s life was a testament to service, integrity, and love.

Born on Staten Island, New York, and raised in West Caldwell, New Jersey, John’s early years were filled with laughter, sports, and strong family values. John attended Seton Hall Preparatory School, where he distinguished himself both in the classroom and on the football field. His athletic and academic excellence earned him a place at Yale University, where he proudly played for the Yale Bulldogs football team and forged lifelong friendships.

Driven by a passion for justice and his keen intellect, John earned his J.D. from Seton Hall Law School, graduating at the top of his class. He later completed his L.L.M. in Taxation at NYU School of Law. For over 30 years, he ran his own law practice in Morristown, serving clients with dedication, compassion, and the highest ethical standards.

John and his loving wife, Karen, made their home in Peapack-Gladstone, where they raised their four cherished children. Family was always at the heart of John’s world. He was a deeply devoted husband and an incredibly proud father, never missing a game, recital, or opportunity to support his children’s dreams.

A man of deep faith, John was an active parishioner of St. Brigid Church, where he served faithfully at 9:30 a.m. Mass as an usher.  John also served as the Financial Secretary for the Knights of Columbus Council 11386. As a 4th Degree Knight, he exemplified the order's values of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.

John’s commitment to his community ran deep. He served on the Peapack-Gladstone Town Council for over 20 years, most recently as Council President. He was instrumental in land preservation efforts, coached local youth sports, and was a tireless advocate for town volunteers. His extraordinary dedication earned him the  honor of being named an honorary member of the Peapack-Gladstone Fire Department—a recognition that deeply touched him.

John’s life was defined by service to others. He showed up—not just when it was convenient, but when it mattered. Whether  at a town meeting, or on the sidelines of a game or wrestling matches, John gave his whole heart to everything he did. His presence was steady, his counsel wise, his humor sharp, and his spirit generous.

John leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in words alone. He is survived by his wife Karen Hrebenak Sweeney, three sons; Conor Sweeney of Gladstone, Devin Sweeney of Easton Pa and Pearse Sweeney of Gladstone, one daughter,  Lauren Durso (Tim) of Chicago, his loving mother Lauretta, two brothers Lawrence Sweeney (Nancy) of FL, and Terence Sweeney (Densie) of Chatham, and two sisters Jane Ann Linde of Mahwah, Mary Ellen Sweeney of Morristown, two grandchildren Tippi and August, and his loyal dog Daisy. John is also predeceased by his adoring father Lawrence.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-5pm at the Bailey Funeral Home, 176 Main St. Peapack.   A funeral liturgy will be held on Monday at 11am at St. Brigid Church, Peapack.  Interment will be in Peapack Union Cemetery.  For those desiring, donations to the Reynolds Fund at Seton Hall Prep or the Peapack Gladstone Fire department in his memory, would be appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in John’s memory to the Seton Hall Prep Reynold’s Fund or the Peapack Gladstone Volunteer Fire Department . Please leave “John Sweeney” in your donation comments.

John Lawrence Sweeney’s life was a gift to all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.