The New Jersey community is mourning the death of Greg Tufaro, a respected journalist, community advocate, and co-founder of the Marisa Tufaro Foundation. Tufaro, 59, died peacefully on August 10, 2026, at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, with his wife, Cyndi, by his side, according to his published obituary.

Greg Tufaro was a lifelong Edison resident and a graduate of Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen and Rutgers University. He built a distinguished nearly three-decade career in journalism, particularly through his work covering sports and high school athletics. His reporting earned national recognition from the Associated Press Sports Editors as well as numerous New Jersey Press Association honors. 

Beyond journalism, Greg was deeply committed to serving children and families in the community. In 2017, he and his wife established the Marisa Tufaro Foundation in memory of their daughter, Marisa, who died at age 13 after a lifelong battle involving a complex heart condition, heart transplant, and cancer. The foundation was created to continue Marisa’s legacy by helping pediatric patients and children in need throughout Middlesex County. 

The foundation went on to make a substantial impact, supporting pediatric patients, families, scholarships, community programs, and charitable initiatives. According to reports following Greg’s death, the organization had donated approximately $500,000 before announcing the conclusion of its charitable mission shortly before his passing. 

Greg’s professional legacy also extended into public service. Since April 2021, he had served as chief of staff to New Jersey State Senator Patrick J. Diegnan Jr. in the state’s 18th Legislative District. His experience in journalism, community affairs, and advocacy made him a respected figure well beyond the newsroom. 

His death has prompted tributes from journalists, former colleagues, educators, athletes, and members of the communities he served. Many have remembered Greg not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his willingness to mentor others and help people advance in their own careers. 

Greg had also maintained a strong connection with Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen. The school recognized him as a longtime supporter and an important member of its community, including his involvement with the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame. 

According to his obituary, Greg is survived by his wife, Cyndi, and was predeceased by their daughter Marisa. He had been privately battling multiple myeloma for approximately five years before his death. 

Funeral arrangements have been announced. Visitation is scheduled for August 16 at Costello-Runyon Funeral Home in Metuchen, followed by a funeral Mass on August 17 at St. Francis Cathedral and burial at Hillside Cemetery in Metuchen. 

Greg Tufaro leaves behind a legacy of journalism, mentorship, community service, and compassion. Through the work he accomplished during his career and the foundation he established in memory of his daughter, his influence will continue to be felt by many.

As family, friends, colleagues, and the wider New Jersey community mourn his passing, heartfelt condolences are extended to everyone who knew Greg. May his memory continue to inspire the same generosity and commitment to community that characterized his life.