It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Barry S. Cost of Verona at age 72. Surrounded by close family, Barry succumbed to his long battle with cancer while at the Karen Ann Quinlan Home for Hospice Center in Fredon Township on March 9, 2023.
Born in Glen Ridge, Barry moved with his family to Verona in 1958. After graduating from high school, Barry enlisted in the Army where he served admirably for two years as a specialist and then in the Reserves for an additional three years.
Barry had a long career with Verizon as a lineman/splicer in the Morris County area and was an active member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, HG McCully Chapter. After 32 years of dedicated service he decided to retire and devote more time to family and to numerous sports and hobbies he enjoyed.
His passion for fishing was strong. Even stronger was his longstanding Friday night poker ritual with his buddies in the comfort of his man cave aka, his air conditioned garage. Barry excelled at softball and bowling. He loved gardening and working outside in his yard. He was also a doting parent to many four-legged, furry companions.
Barry was a beacon of light who faced adversity and challenges with childlike innocence. He took things in stride, always choosing to see the glass as half full. He lived life on his terms, successfully wearing different hats when the situation called for it. Always choosing to make people laugh with his jokes and his quick wit, he used humor to generate smiles and laughter with everyone he encountered.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Betty Wilson; his siblings Skip Cost, Jeffrey Cost and his wife Linda, Jill Watkins and her husband Robbie; his brother-in-law William Cavalero; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents Charles and Louise Cost, and siblings Susan Cavalero and Jack Cost.
Barry touched so many lives during his brief sojourn on Earth and will be sorely missed by those who were blessed to be a part of his life.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Holistic Pet Care at Longevity Veterinary Center, 125 Paterson Ave., Little Falls, NJ 07424 or the ASPCA, P. O. Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929 would be appreciated.
Condolences may be left at www.proutfuneralhome.com.
