It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Justin C. Houlihan, a devoted husband, loving father, successful businessman, and friend to so many. At just 47 years old, Justin leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, hard work, and a life lived with purpose.

Born on December 24, 1978, in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Justin was raised in Beachwood, where he developed the strong work ethic and determination that would define his life. A natural entrepreneur with an unwavering drive to succeed, Justin started Air Concepts Heating & Cooling at just 22 years old. This past year, he proudly celebrated 25 years in business, a milestone that reflected not only his professional success but also the dedication and perseverance that made him the man he was. In 2010, he expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors by opening Retro Fitness, which he successfully owned until selling it in 2018. He also built a portfolio of investment properties and found a special piece of paradise in Myrtle Beach, his beloved “happy place.”

While Justin accomplished so much in his life, his greatest pride and most cherished accomplishment were always his two children, Ava and Landon. No business, investment, or professional milestone could ever compare to the joy of being their dad. He worked tirelessly to give them the world, wanting nothing more than to see them happy, supported, and successful. He was a devoted coach to Landon’s baseball teams, proudly sharing in the excitement of every game, and he wholeheartedly supported Ava’s love of dance, showing up for her and encouraging her every step of the way. His children were his heart, his greatest joy, and the legacy he treasured above all else.

As a husband and father, Justin loved fiercely and without reservation. Family was everything to him, and he worked hard every day to build a beautiful life for those he loved. He was a man who believed in showing up, providing, protecting, and making memories with the people who mattered most. His love was evident not only in the big things he accomplished but also in the countless ways he cared for those around him.

Justin had a heart of gold and was the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His generosity knew no bounds, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand to someone who needed it. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. To know Justin was to love him. His larger-than-life presence, kind heart, and willingness to do anything for the people he loved left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Justin’s life was a testament to what can be accomplished through determination, generosity, and love. Though his time here was far too short, the life he built, the people he helped, the friendships he formed, and, above all, the family he loved so deeply will forever be a reflection of the remarkable man he was. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his love will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Justin is survived by his beloved wife, Kristyn; his cherished children, Ava and Landon, who were the center of his world; his mother, Teresa; his stepmother, Gail; his brother Shane (Alison) and their children, Morgan and Ethan; his brother Damien (Erin) and their children, Keira, Delaney, and Quinn; and his sister Mackenzie (Justin) and their children, Myah and Mason. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert.

Though Justin’s passing leaves behind unimaginable heartbreak, his family finds comfort in knowing that the love he gave so freely will never fade. He will be remembered for the life he built, the generosity he showed, the dreams he pursued, and the unwavering love he had for his family. He will forever be missed, endlessly loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be Friday, October 23rd from 4-8pm at Anderson & Campbell. 703 Main St. Toms River, NJ. A prayer service will be held at 7:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Justin’s memory to the Ashley Lauren Foundation, a charity near and dear to his heart, in honor of the Phillips family and their son, Mason.

Justin, I will always love you l and forever cherish every memory we made throughout our 14 years together. It was one of the greatest honors of my life to share those years with you and to give you the role you had always dreamed of…being a father. I promise to make sure Ava and Landon grow up knowing just how deeply you loved them and what an extraordinary man their Daddy was. I will keep your memory alive in their hearts, share the stories and memories that make you who you are, and make sure they always know how lucky they were to have you as their father. I will carry your love with us for the rest of our lives. You will forever be a part of us, and you will never stop being loved and missed. Love your wife, Kristyn.

Toms River Obituaries – TomsRiver.org