Deacon Jack Werner, 84, of Blackwood, who served as permanent vicar in the Diocese of Camden for the past 27 years, died Oct. 26.

Ordained by Bishop James McHugh on March 15, 1997, he was assigned to Saint Agnes Church in Blackwood in June 1997 and then to the consolidated Our Lady of Hope Parish in May 2010, where he served until his retirement in 2015.

In 2000, he was appointed weekend cremator for Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio. Deacon Werner also served on the Deacon Staff Board and the Diaconate Admission Board. He was also part of the Diocesan Finance Committee, the Diocesan Audit Committee, and the Diocesan Cemetery Committee.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Villanova University in 1962 and a master’s degree in theology from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in 2003. He also devoted 22 years as finance director for the Camden County Municipal Utility Authority, where he left his expertise and leadership. A mark that will not be erased until he retires in 2009.

In addition to his diaconate work, he was a fourth-degree Knight of Columbus with the Council of Holy Crusaders #9193 and the Council of Bishop Schad #2843.

He was the beloved husband of the late Joanne D. Werner (nee Stefano), who predeceased him in 2023; devoted father of Jeannine Gallo (Mark), Jennifer Cusano (Tom) and John F. Werner III; Proud grandfather of the late Justine Werner, Victoria Werner, Gabriella Cusano, Gavin Gallo, Logan Gallo and Mason Gallo.

Deacon Werner is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his parents, John F. Werner Sr. and Eugenia Mary Werner (nee Danieska) and her sister Joan Avallon (Lowell).

“His service to the community was not just a duty, it was a duty he fulfilled until his last days. Jack’s presence was a source of comfort and guidance to parishioners, and his contributions to the mission of the Church were invaluable,” his family said in announcing his passing.

A viewing will be held on October 31 from 9:45-11:45 at Our Lady of Hope Parish / Saint Agnes Church, 701 Little Gloucester Road, Blackwood, NJ 08012. A Christian burial service will begin in the afternoon.

Burial will follow immediately at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Chews Landing.