Obituary of Barry Aaron Segal

Barry Aaron Segal, age 90, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at his home in Warren, New Jersey, surrounded by his loving family.

Barry lived a remarkable life that was defined by generosity, conviction, and deep care for others. He lived life entirely on his own terms, always driven by a belief in doing good and helping those in need. He believed strongly that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive.

He was the proud patriarch of a large and loving family: a devoted father to six children, an admired father-in-law, a cherished grandfather to fifteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He was also a mentor and lifelong friend to many; his generosity touched more lives than can be counted.

Barry was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Lucille. He is survived by his adoring wife, Dolly Segal, and her daughter, Christine Cura; his former wife, Juliane Segal; and his children: Janis Simon (Ronald), Brad Segal (Melissa), Sharon Harrison (Bruce), Richard Segal (Joanna), Lisa Green (formerly married to Arthur), and Martin Segal (Kristen).

Born on March 14, 1935, to Helen and Milton Segal, Barry grew up in Lawrence, New York, with his sister, Wendy Steinbaum. After he attended the University of Virginia, Barry began his career in the roofing industry, working with his father at the H. Verby Company. In 1966, Barry founded Bradco Supply, a roofing distribution company that grew from a single location into more than 150 branches nationwide. After selling the business in 2008, Barry began a new chapter inspired by a life-changing visit to Rwanda through the Clinton Global Initiative. That journey led to the creation of the Segal Family Foundation (SFF), dedicated to improving lives across Sub-Saharan Africa. With a focus on supporting local, grassroots organizations, SFF grew into one of the most impactful American funders in Africa—second only to the Gates Foundation by number of grants—and was honored with Catalyst 2030’s Best Overall Donor award (worldwide) in 2023.

With boundless energy, Barry went on to found Focus for Health in 2015 to address inequities in the United States and Focus Central America in 2021 to address the root causes of forced migration. These three initiatives operate under Segal Philanthropies, led today by his son Martin, and powered—as Barry would proudly say—by a team of talented, mission-driven staff. Barry’s enduring commitment to philanthropy has inspired his family to carry forward his legacy through active leadership on the boards of his foundations.

Barry was a man of many passions. He was very competitive, a lifelong sports fan and an avid tennis player, playing well into his 80s. He loved to travel, collect, read, garden, chop down trees, and enjoyed jigsaw puzzles. Above all, he loved being the “boss.”

Barry’s legacy will live on in his family, his friends, his business and philanthropic achievements, along with the countless lives he changed around the world. He will be deeply missed; his influence and vision will continue to resonate for generations to come.

The family suggests that contributions be made in Barry’s memory to support Focus for Health grantees working to combat child sexual abuse, advancing criminal justice reform, and addressing social determinants of health. Contributions can be made here.

May his memory be a blessing.