Roger P. Flanagan Sr.

Roger Flanagan 91, born on May 21, 1934, in Newark NJ to Philip and Mae Flanagan died peacefully in his home in Middlesex NJ on July 21, 2025. Roger will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind, caring, compassionate soul with a heart of gold. Roger is survived by his wife, Marlene Joan Flanagan, his two sons Roger Jr. (Candace) and Robert Flanagan (Christine), his four grandchildren: Kelly Hellman (Sean), Bobby Flanagan (Jaclyn), Kristi Somma (Michael) and Joshua. Roger and Joan were also blessed with seven great grandchildren: Patrick, Daniel, Christopher, Frank, Lukas, Donald and Cameron.

Roger was one of six children. He is predeceased by his sister Catherine (Tootsie), his brothers Philip, Thomas, Fintan and Roger’s twin, Gavan. He served in the Army National Guard before marrying the love of his life. Roger and Joan were blessed with 68 wonderful years together. Roger’s professional career began as a Machinist. He and his twin brother Gavan opened their own business, known as “Flanagan’s Machine Shop”. He then took a position as Machinist with Ethicon where he also served in the Fire Brigade. He handled the Safety Division within Ethicon and was awarded several awards for their excellent safety record. Roger retired from Ethicon in 1994. As his sons grew, they too started their own business, and Roger visited their shop daily offering his help and service. Roger had a gift for taking things apart and putting them back together. He had a passion for “scrap metal” and would often pick up items, disassemble them, refurbish, rebuild and sell them for scrap money. Roger always found things to keep him busy. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, going to the casino in Atlantic City, trips to Florida and most of all spending time with his beautiful family and cherished friends. Hosting family holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and those amazing St. Patrick’s Day celebrations were his joy. His culinary talents delighted everyone and there was always plenty of love to go around. Roger will be deeply missed by everyone. He was a true family hero. He gave his heart and soul to the people he loved and being with his family meant more to him than anything else. May his beautiful soul rest in peace.   

Services are pending.  Arrangements are in the care of Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home, Bound Brook, NJ

For those wishing to remember Roger, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Adult Day Center of Somerset County; 872 East Main Street, Bridgewater NJ, 08807