Walter "Sonny" Covert, Jr.

Walter S. Covert Jr., affectionately known as Sonny/Poppy, passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 5, 2024, at the age of 93 in Long Branch, New Jersey. He was born on April 18, 1930, in Sea Bright, NJ, to the late Walter and Adeline Covert.

Sonny was a family man, being one of the best dads to his children, on top of being an amazing husband. He was very outgoing and respectful. Sonny was a devoted member of the Sea Bright community, always volunteering at a whim to help others in need, both in and outside of emergency services. He had a great sense of humor and was full of jokes and stories from his adventures and life experiences.

During Super Storm Sandy, Sonny's dedication to his community was unwavering. He stayed behind, waiting out the storm by himself, sleeping in a recliner at the firehouse floating in flood waters. His bravery and commitment to the safety of others will never be forgotten.

Sonny is survived by his children: Timothy Covert (FL), Deborah L. Schmid & her fiance Angelo Ciaglia, Tammy & her husband Charlie Ying Ling, and Vicki Covert. He is also survived by his grandchildren Patrick Covert, David Covert, Richard Covert, Danial Schmid, Zachary Covert, Kevin Covert, Amanda Burbank, and many great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Gracie Covert, his parents Walter & Adeline Covert, his siblings Dorothy Early & Lois Baxter, and his son Walter S. Covert III.

Sonny proudly served in the U.S Army (68th Engineer Co) from 1948 to 1954, where he honed his skills and dedication to duty.

Throughout his life, Walter held numerous job positions, from being a Police Officer to a professional painter, maintenance man, and Security Guard.

In his free time, Sonny enjoyed being an active member of the Sea Bright Fire Department and Sea Bright First Aid for 63 years. He also had a passion for driving cars back and forth from Florida, playing bingo and cards.

A memorial gathering to honor Sonny's life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 3pm-5pm at Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Avenue, Long Branch, NJ.  Firemen Services and Military Honors will begin at 4:45 pm. Following this will be his Re-pass, which will be held 5:30pm-8pm at the Oceanport Hook & Ladder Firehouse. Located at 21 Main St, Oceanport, NJ 07757. For those who wish to make a contribution in his memory, donations can be sent to St. Jude’s Children Foundation.

Sonny will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

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