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Sudden Death Of NJ High School Assistant Principal Spreads Shock, Sadness

A New Jersey community was mourning the sudden loss of a high school administrator and father of five.

AJ Barchetto.

AJ Barchetto.

Photo Credit: GoFundMe photo (left)/AJ Barchetto Linkedin

Andrew "AJ" Barchetto, 46, died unexpectedly on Sunday, Sept. 22, according to family members and his obituary on the Wood Funeral Home website.

Barchetto was the assistant principal of Oakcrest High School, where he also served as the supervisor of special education and child study team, the school's website says.

Daily Voice has reached out to OHS Principal Michael Manning for comment. 

Barchetto is survived by his wife, Julie, and five children, Hailey, Trevor, Leah, Reese and Lainey, according to a GoFundMe page that had raised $43,000 as of press time.

"AJ was the hardest working guy anyone ever knew," campaign organizer Tony Barchetto said. "He poured his heart into everything he did. His work in special education made a profound impact on countless students and their families. AJ’s commitment to his students was unwavering, and he was known for his compassion and ability to inspire those around him."

The campaign goes on to say Barchetto had a deep love for his family, remembering him as a "devoted husband and father who cherished every moment spent with his kids. Boat rides, beach days, practices and games--he was there for it all."

Condolences poured in.

"AJ was an extraordinary husband, father, and friend," Amy Sink Eastburn writes on Facebook. "He had a remarkable ability to create—from culinary delights to handcrafted furniture—while always bringing joy and laughter to those around him. His kindness extended to everyone, as he consistently advocated for the underdogs and was willing to lend a hand to anyone in need."

His wife, Julie, said: "As the sun has set on AJ's time here on earth, we are doing as he wished and having a memorial service to celebrate his short 46 years of life."

Visitation will be held Friday, Sept. 27 and Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Wood Funeral Home in Tuckerton. A "time of remembrance" will be at noon on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Click here to donate to the Barchetto family.

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