Elliott Eugene Caplan

After bravely fighting a long illness, Elliott Caplan, a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and mentor, passed away peacefully on February 28 at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1939, Elliott was the son of Earl and Thelma (Goldman) Caplan. He was a graduate of Forest Park High School and Drexel University. In 1967, he moved to New Jersey, where he founded University Communications. It was there he adopted his lifelong mantra: “Do what you like, so you like what you do.” In 1978, Elliott married Nancy McGurk, the love of his life and his source of strength.

Elliott eventually found his true calling in real estate. As a broker and founder of the Caplan School of Real Estate, he mentored countless professionals across Monmouth and Ocean Counties, many of whom became lifelong friends. A respected consultant and court expert on ethics, he was deeply committed to professional service through the New Jersey Association of Realtors and Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors. He was especially proud of his work providing college scholarships to the families of real estate professionals through the NJ Realtors Education Foundation, reflecting his deep belief in the power of education.

Outside of work, Elliott was a prolific builder and a master entertainer. He was also a celebrated member of the “twins community,” attending the Twins Day Festival for 30 years alongside his twin brother, Harvey. Devoted to charitable efforts, he led decades-long campaigns to fund travel for other twins so they could attend.

Elliott is survived by his wife of 47 years, Nancy; his sister, Sheila Goodman; his twin brother, Harvey (Phyllis); his children, Barry (Lananh), Sherrie (Gerard), and Todd (Katie); three cherished grandchildren, Caelan (German), Ilana, and Viviana; and his stepsons, Jimmy and Brian (Lina).

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the nurses and healthcare workers whose dedicated care provided Elliott with hope and comfort.

A funeral service will be held at Sol Levinson's chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 on Thursday, March 19th, 2026 at 1pm. Interment at Oheb Shalom Memorial Park, 430 Berrymans Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136. A Celebration of Life will be held in June in New Jersey. Details will be shared when arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers the family requests anyone wishing to make a donation in Elliott's honor consider making a donation to the NJ Realtors Education Foundation at https://www.njrealtorsef.com/donations/ or 10 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08611.

The family will be in mourning at 3011 Fallstaff Rd., Unit #503, Baltimore, MD 21209 immediately following the funeral.