Gennaro “Jerry” Esposito

Jerry Esposito passed away peacefully at home in Fort Lee, New Jersey on January 9, 2021 at the age of 94. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Born in New York City on September 9, 1926 to Carmela (Millie) Esposito-Abruscato and Arturo Esposito, Jerry is predeceased by four siblings: Frankie, Jimmy, Anthony, and Angelo. Jerry proudly served his country in the US Army during World War II, where he received The American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal Ribbon and WWII Victory Ribbon. He also enjoyed boxing in the Army and earned the title “The Rock.” For most of his life, Jerry enjoyed sharing these many stories with his family.

 
Upon returning home after being injured during his service in the US Army, Jerry married his sweetheart, Florence Colucci, and settled in the Bronx. Florence was the great love of Jerry’s life, and together they built a wonderful future and made many special memories. They were married for 67 years until Florence's death in 2016. Jerry was a devoted father and is survived by his three children: Jean Kern of Saddle River, New Jersey, Arthur Esposito of Fort Lee, New Jersey, Lisa Capirossi and her husband James of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. He was a loving grandfather (Mepa and Poppy) to Jennifer Esposito, Lauren Lewis and her husband Michael, James, Andrew, Nicholas Capirossi and great grandfather to Thomas Snyder and Hunter Lewis. 

His passions were collecting baseball cards, cheering for the NY Yankees, playing the lottery and spending time at the pool and beach with his family. His energy was infinite. Whether playing with his grandchildren, meticulously stringing Christmas lights, landscaping, or cooking for holidays (his stuffed artichokes were a family favorite), he had hardworking hands that never grew tired. His humor was unforgettable. He could regularly be found wearing funny hats, impersonating his wife’s walk, and being silly with his grandchildren. To know Jerry was to laugh with him, and he had a unique ability to fill a room with joy and laughter.

Above all, Jerry Esposito cherished and lived for his family. If he was not adoring his wife, he was spending his time with the other joys of his life—his grandchildren. We will never forget his strength, courage, work ethic and heart of gold. We will forever remember the man who made us smile and their song “I’ll be seeing you.”

In light of Covid, those who wish to attend the funeral mass are invited to view the livestream on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at St. Elizabeth's Church in Wyckoff, New Jersey at 12 pm by https://saintelizabeths.org/live-streaming 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry's memory to Alzheimer’s Foundation or to the Disabled Veterans Association