Walter D. Pharo

O “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” – C.S. Lewis It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Walter Drake Pharo, of Tuckerton, NJ, on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at the age of 72. He is survived by his mother, Gertrude E. (née Drake) Pharo; daughter, Jessica (Joseph) DuBray; grandson, Julian DuBray; sisters, Karen Ross and Wendy Mathis; nephews, Darrol (Denise) Ross, Jeff (Jennifer) Ross, and Daniel Mathis; nieces, Julie (Rich) Juliano, Malinda (Bob) Kidder, and Kimberly (Ottoniel) Garcia; and many great-nephews and great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his father, Franklin A. Pharo. Walt treasured the experience of growing up in a small town on the bay, where he enjoyed the freedom to be adventurous and make mischief with his cousins and friends. Upon graduation from Southern Regional High School in Stafford Township, Walt joined the U.S. Navy, where he served on submarines as a Shipboard Electronics Technician. After being honorably discharged, Walt began his career with EG&G Environmental Consultants as a Field Engineer and, later, for EG&G International as a Senior Oceanographic Engineer. He traveled extensively in this role and conducted field operations in Asia, Australia, South America, and Alaska. When globetrotting had lost its allure and he was ready to be closer to friends and family, Walt came back home to New Jersey to work as a Technical and I.T. Support Specialist, initially with Rutgers University’s Shellfish Research Lab and, later, with Stockton University (from whence he retired). Walt was a faithful and loving son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle and was always generous with his time and friendship. Walt was helpful: If you were having trouble with your computer or electronic device, he was the one to call. Walt was funny: He had a dry sense of humor that could catch you off guard and leave you in stitches. Walt was soft-spoken and exceedingly humble: He would always downplay his intelligence and talents (which were considerable). Walt was curious and contemplative: He was never far from a cup of coffee and a good book to read. Those who knew Walt only casually might have mistaken his mildness of manner for an absence of passion. But, those who knew Walt best would be able to recognize in the subtlety of his demeanor an intense devotion and fierce loyalty to those whom he loved – to his country, to his faith, to his family. In addition to the family members mentioned above, Walt loved his faith community. He was a long-time member of Bayside Chapel and served on the tech team and as a youth group leader. And, Walt’s family is eternally grateful for the love and support provided by Walt’s brothers and sisters in Christ. A Celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Walt’s name to the American Lung Association.

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