John K. Lloyd, an affable health care executive who took a struggling Neptune hospital and built what would become the state’s biggest health care system, has died, Hackensack Meridian Health announced Friday. The cause of death wasn’t disclosed. He was 77.
Lloyd developed a reputation for a collegial, humble management style that won over the rank and file. He often would introduce himself by his first and last name even when everyone knew who he was.
“Beyond being a visionary leader, John was a wonderful man, well-known throughout HMH as being someone who truly cared for each and every team member,” said Robert C. Garrett, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health.
Lloyd was a familiar figure at the Jersey Shore. He lived in Avon with his wife, Maureen. And he served on boards of directors for Georgian Court University in Lakewood and OceanFirst Financial Corp. in Toms River.
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During a 35-year period, he oversaw Meridian Health, which included five hospitals in Monmouth and Ocean counties — Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, Ocean University Medical Center in Brick, and Southern Ocean Medical Center in Stafford.