Kids & Family

West Orange Family Needs Help After Father, Husband Passes Away

Bryan Cowley worked up to three jobs to support his family. He passed away suddenly last week. Here's how you can help in a tough time.

A West Orange family is struggling in the wake of a devastating tragedy and can use the community’s help, officials say.
A West Orange family is struggling in the wake of a devastating tragedy and can use the community’s help, officials say. (Photo courtesy of the Cowley family, used with permission)

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A West Orange family is struggling in the wake of a devastating tragedy and can use the community’s help, officials say.

The West Orange Public School District shared the following message about a local family in need on Monday:

“Bryan Cowley was a loving father to six children and a caring husband to his wife Tammy. He passed away suddenly last week. He has worked up to three jobs at a time to support his large family, but lost his primary job due to COVID-related cutbacks in April. As a result, Bryan lost his life insurance, and the unemployment checks he had been receiving will terminate.”

Major Joseph Marchesini (USAF-Ret.), Commander of the West Orange High School JRAFROTC, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover immediate and significant expenses. It’s raised more than $20,000 from almost 300 donors as of Monday evening.

Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Visit the Go Fund Me page here to make a donation.
  • If you are interested in providing meals for the family, go here.

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