A 'Heartbreaking Loss': Community Rallies Around NJ Family After Father's Death

FREEHOLD, NJ — The Freehold community is rallying around a local family following the passing of their father.

According to an online fundraiser started to support the family, Freehold resident John French was a devoted father of three and a longtime part of the local community when he passed away at just 50 years old.

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After 25 years of marriage, John's wife, Ana, is now carrying an overwhelming weight of grief following his passing, while also trying to manage everything that comes with losing a husband and father — including preparing funeral and memorial services for John.

Two of the couple's children attended Freehold Township High School and are now at Brookdale, while their third child just started middle school at Middle School North.

An online fundraiser has been started to help the family with the immediate expenses they are facing after John's death and to help ease some of the financial burden during this difficult time.

"The French family has been part of this community throughout their marriage, and now they need that same community to surround them with care," fundraiser organizers said.

"Please consider supporting Ana and the children in any way you can as they navigate this heartbreaking loss."

The online fundraiser has a goal of $20,000. As of Monday afternoon, $17,900 has been raised.

"Every act of kindness, every donation, and every bit of support will mean so much to the French family," organizers said.

To access the GoFundMe for the French Family, you can click here.

A visitation will be held for John from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday at DeMoro Funeral Home in Millstone Township.