Wayne Mourns Former Councilman, EMT, Community Staple

WAYNE, NJ — Flags in Wayne were at half-staff this week to honor the death of a longtime local leader.

After spending decades serving the community he lived in for years, Chris McIntyre has died.

McIntyre was a Wayne councilman, serving the fifth ward for 20 years. His election in 1995 marked the first time a Democrat had been on the council in decades, and throughout much of his career on the council, he served as the sole Democrat.

He is remembered not only as a colleague by Wayne Mayor Chris Vergano, but also as a friend.

"I was sad to hear the news of Chris McIntyre's passing," Vergano said. "Chris was a long-time Wayne resident, former Councilman, former First-Aid member, and someone I was always proud to call my good friend. Please keep Chris’s family in your thoughts and prayers."

In addition to serving on the council since the 1990s, McIntyre became a member of the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad in 1980, a role he filled for years.

"Chris was more than a member of our squad — he was part of our family. For many years, he gave his time, dedication, and service to others, always answering the call when his community needed him," a Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad statement read. "His presence, friendship, and commitment to the squad will be deeply missed. The memories he made and the lives he touched will remain with us always."

McIntyre also spent his time volunteering in other Wayne capacities, including with the Planning Board, the library's Board of Trustees, Wayne Elks Lodge #2181, and the township’s Public Safety Commission.

Details on services for McIntyre were not immediately available.