Brian B. Gingrich

Brian Braxton Gingrich, a loving husband, proud father, Navy veteran, and lifelong aviator, passed away surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Toms River, New Jersey. He was 80 years old.

Born on September 17, 1945, Brian’s enduring love for aviation was sparked early in life, working at his family’s airport. He became a licensed pilot who cherished time spent in the air. This passion was only equaled by his dedication to his country; Brian proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

For many years, Brian was a respected Teamster and truck driver. Combining his professional skills with his love for flight, he also spent countless weekends towing banners along the Jersey Shore.

A man of great practical skill, Brian was known for being incredibly handy, and he took immense pride in his ability to fix almost anything. A true character and natural communicator, he was known for his great sense of humor and his gift for storytelling, always ready with a witty remark or an engaging anecdote. He was a dedicated member of his community, serving for many years as the President of his neighborhood association, where he was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed. In his leisure time, he was a fixture in his local pool league, playing multiple times a week. Above all, Brian was a loving and supportive husband to his wife, Sophia, and a proud father who loved his children very much.

Brian is survived by his beloved wife, Sophia Attanasio Papa Gingrich, of Toms River; his children, Brian Bruce Gingrich (Chell) and Donna Michele Jones (Christopher); and his stepsons, Vincent Papa (Tina) and Victor Papa (Nadine). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Sharon Gingrich (Anthony), Elena Jones, and Yana Bartido. Brian is also survived by his brothers, Gary M. Gingrich (Brenda) and Neil B. Gingrich (Helen).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary R. Robertson and Luther Walter Gingrich, and his siblings, Barbara M. Gingrich and Walter Bruce Gingrich.

Viewing for family and friends will be on December 1, 2025 from 4:00-7:00pm with Military Honors at 6:30pm at Mastapeter Memorial Home, 270 Atlantic City Blvd., Bayville, NJ 08721. December 2, 2025 from 9:00-10:00am viewing at the Funeral Home with at Prayer Service at 9:30am followed by a Committal at 11:00am at Brigadier General W.C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd., Wrightstown, NJ 08562.

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