Ernest Cooney

Ernest Cooney, 85, of Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, formerly of Bayonne, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, including his beloved wife, Diane (Donaway) Cooney.

Born and raised in Bayonne, NJ, Ernest carried with him the values of hard work, loyalty, and devotion to family throughout his life. He was a devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by those he loved.

Ernest was predeceased by his beloved parents, Virginia and Edward Cooney; his brother, Edward Cooney; and his sister, Margaret Cooney. He is survived by his brother, John Cooney, with whom he shared a lifelong bond.

He leaves behind his loving children: Edward Cooney, Ernest Shawn Cooney, Colleen Kaczka, and James Leblo.

Ernest was a proud grandfather to Edward Cooney, Kyle, Kenny, and Krista Kaczka, Jimmy and Nicole Leblo, and Gillian Cocozziellos.

His greatest joy in recent years was being a great-grandfather to Ronan, Patrick and Eliana Kaczka, and Gianna Molnar who  brought light and happiness into his life.

Ernest will be remembered for his strength, his dedication to his family, and the love he gave so freely. His presence, guidance, and steady support will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to Deborah Hospital Foundation at https://www.deborahfoundation.org/donate/.

SERVICES:

A wake will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 8:30 AM prior to the funeral Mass at:

Maxwell Funeral Home160 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08087

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 AM at:

St. Theresa’s Church450 Radio Road, Little Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08087

Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, New Jersey.