RED BANK, N.J. — The Red Bank business community, local leaders, and members of the fashion and publishing industries are mourning the sudden loss of Anthony Barbera, the entrepreneur, visionary businessman, and media executive widely known as “Anthony Coco.” Barbera, founder of the iconic Coco Pari boutique and partner and Chief Operating Officer of Industry Magazine New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy that helped reshape downtown Red Bank and influence New Jersey’s fashion and retail landscape.
News of his death was announced by Industry Magazine on June 6, 2026, in a heartfelt tribute that described Barbera as much more than a business leader.
“Anthony was the founder of the famous Coco Pari and Industry’s New Jersey Partner and COO, but more than that, he was a dear friend, trusted leader, motivator, and an irreplaceable part of our Industry family,” the publication said. “His passion, loyalty, strength, and larger-than-life presence helped shape so much of what we have built, and his impact will forever remain part of our story.”
At the time of publication, Anthony Barbera’s cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
A Driving Force Behind Red Bank’s Transformation
For decades, Barbera was recognized as one of the most influential figures in Red Bank’s commercial and cultural evolution. Through his boutique, Coco Pari, he helped establish the borough as a destination for upscale retail and fashion, attracting shoppers from throughout New Jersey and beyond.
Longtime residents and business owners credit Coco Pari with helping usher in a new era for downtown Red Bank during a period when traditional retail models were facing significant challenges. The boutique became known not only for luxury fashion and designer brands but also for its role in elevating the town’s image as a vibrant shopping and lifestyle destination.
Former Red Bank Mayor Ed McKenna reflected on Barbera’s influence in a public tribute following news of his passing.
“As the former Mayor of Red Bank during the period of his mark on Downtown Red Bank, I am saddened at the loss of a man who has been instrumental in the changing landscape of commerce in Red Bank,” McKenna wrote.
He described Barbera as both a friend and collaborator who played a pivotal role in helping modernize the borough’s retail economy.
“We shared the same vision to transform a worn, ultimately cataclysmic retail model based on a changing economy to the modern world,” McKenna said. “To that end, he was passionate in the ultimate goal that retail has to be targeted and geared to a world outside our immediate horizon.”
According to McKenna, Coco Pari’s success opened doors for additional national retailers and helped position Red Bank as a forward-thinking business community.
“His Coco Pari opened the gates for other national retailers,” he said.
The Vision Behind Industry Magazine
Beyond his accomplishments in retail, Barbera was also recognized as a creative force behind Industry Magazine, a publication that has become a prominent voice in fashion, entertainment, business, and lifestyle coverage throughout New Jersey and beyond.
Friends and colleagues described the magazine as one of Barbera’s most ambitious and successful ventures.
“Industry Magazine was his brainchild and his gamble,” McKenna noted. “He brought an element of style, fashion, creativity to fill a void.”
Under his leadership, the publication grew into a respected platform that highlighted influential figures, emerging trends, and notable achievements across multiple industries.
Those who worked alongside Barbera frequently described him as a leader who inspired creativity and encouraged others to pursue excellence. His enthusiasm for innovation and his unwavering commitment to quality helped establish Industry Magazine as a recognizable brand throughout the region.
Remembered for His Larger-Than-Life Personality
While Barbera’s professional accomplishments were significant, many of the tributes shared in recent days have focused on the personal qualities that made him beloved by friends, family members, and colleagues.
Industry Magazine described him as a loyal friend, a motivator, and a trusted leader whose presence could light up any room.
People who knew him often recall his generosity, sense of humor, and ability to build meaningful relationships. Whether discussing business, fashion, community development, or everyday life, Barbera had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life.
McKenna remembered him as a proud Brooklyn native who ultimately found his place in Red Bank.
“He was a Brooklyn boy that found his niche in Red Bank,” he said. “I am glad he did.”
A Friendship Marked by a Special Memory
Among the many stories shared following Barbera’s death, one particularly personal memory offered insight into the compassionate side of the businessman many knew publicly.
McKenna recounted an encounter during a Red Bank Day event outside Coco Pari involving a local animal rescue organization.
According to the former mayor, Barbera encouraged him to spend time with a white Labrador named Lilly that was available for adoption.
Initially reluctant to take the dog home, McKenna said Barbera gave him a simple ultimatum.
“Adopt her now or I take her,” he recalled Barbera saying.
McKenna ultimately adopted Lilly, a decision he would never regret.
“Never regretted it till she died in my arms of old age,” he wrote. “Anthony insisted and I concurred that he would be Lilly’s godfather.”
The story has resonated with many who say it perfectly captures Barbera’s warmth, persistence, and love for both people and animals.
An Outpouring of Grief
Following the announcement of his death, social media quickly filled with messages of condolences and remembrance from business leaders, friends, former customers, and community members.
Many expressed gratitude for the impact Barbera had on their lives and careers, while others reflected on the role he played in helping shape the identity of Red Bank over the years.
His influence extended beyond the walls of his businesses. Through mentorship, philanthropy, and community involvement, he touched countless lives and built relationships that will endure long after his passing.
For many, Anthony Barbera represented the entrepreneurial spirit that helped transform Red Bank into one of New Jersey’s most dynamic downtown districts.
A Lasting Legacy
As family members, friends, and colleagues continue to mourn his loss, they are also celebrating a life defined by vision, determination, creativity, and generosity.
Anthony Barbera’s legacy can be seen in the thriving businesses he helped create, the community he helped transform, and the countless people he inspired along the way.
Though his passing leaves an undeniable void, those who knew him best say his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
He will be remembered not only as the founder of Coco Pari and a driving force behind Industry Magazine, but also as a friend, mentor, innovator, and passionate advocate for the community he loved.
Funeral and memorial service details have not yet been publicly announced.
Anthony Barbera’s memory lives on through the businesses he built, the friendships he nurtured, and the lasting mark he left on Red Bank and beyond.
Rest in peace, Anthony Barbera.
