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Gerald Buckley Obituary
Gerald (Jerry) F. Buckley, of New City, passed away on December 7, 2013 surrounded by his loving family after a long, courageous battle with Lupus. Jerry was born November 12, 1942 to Helen (Mulrooney) and Gerald Buckley. He grew up in Brooklyn, attending Holy Cross Grammar School and St. Augustine High School. Jerry graduated with a business degree from Manhattan College in 1964. While at Manhattan he was an outstanding half-miler as a member of the Jasper track team. He continued to compete for many years after college for the New York Athletic Club, and later served as the President of the Manhattan College Spiked Shoe Alumni Club. Jerry also received his M.B.A. from St. John's University. He began his teaching and coaching career at Nazareth High School in Brooklyn. At Nazareth he coached many outstanding teams and was inducted into their Hall of Fame as a coach in 1988. After moving to Rockland County in 1973 he continued his teaching career in the Business Department at Clarkstown North High School. He taught there for nearly 30 years and was loved by many. While at Clarkstown North, he coached the varsity boys' track team for several years. Jerry also served as moderator of the DECA Business Club and implemented a student internship program. He was an active member of St. Augustine's Parish in New City, serving as a religion teacher, Eucharistic Minister, and Lector. Jerry was a man of faith who loved his family, friends, and a good long run.
He is survived by his wife and best friend of 43 years Sheila (Kelly) Buckley, his children: Jerry and wife Bernadette of Jacksonville, Fl., Colleen and husband Gene Dove of Monroe, NY, Patrick and wife Allison, of New City. Jerry loved his grandchildren "The Big Ten": John 17, Patrick 12, Daniel 10, Shannon 10, Erin 8, Anna 7, Ryan 6, Catherine 5, Julia 5, and Joseph 3. He is also survived by sister in law Ann Kelly of Sayville, N.Y. and many dearly loved cousins.
Jerry was known as a true gentleman and will be deeply missed by all. Family will receive visitors on Tuesday, December 10 and Wednesday, December 11 at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home in New City from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Augustine's on Thursday, December 12 at 10am. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Michael J. Higgins
Funeral Service Inc.
321 S. Main Street
New City, NY 10956
(845) 634-6110
www.mjhigginsnewcity.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Buckley
Ralph Mochi
August 13, 2022
Amen.
Stuart Fitzpatrick
December 4, 2019
As someone who was pushed and encouraged to reach for my full potential by Coach Buckley, I am still inspired today by what he instilled in me so many decades ago. He was a great teacher, coach and leader of young men. It's hard to imagine what my life would be like if he had not been such a role model for me to look up to at that critical time in my life. I am forever grateful that was able to show me that my potential was unlimited as long as I was willing to work for it. Thank you, Coach. Forever!
January 7, 2014
You have my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beloved husband and father. May God provide your family with loving comfort and support through this difficult time (Psalm 145:14)
Bill Mccutchan
December 28, 2013
sympathy and prayers for the family. Coach Buckley always meant what was good and possible in Brooklyn in the 60's.
Bill McCutchan
December 28, 2013
so very to hear of coach buckles passing. His influence was always deeply felt. even now 45 years later when we meet we remember him. I dont know of many people who continue to affect us so long. Prayers for the family and I hope that soon your memories will be sweet.
GIina Jones
December 16, 2013
Dear Coach Buckley we are very sorry to hear of your loss, may God be with you and your family through this difficult time our prayer's are with you and your family. God will keep you strong.
Gina Guy and Gino Smith
Jacksonville, Florida
Mary Jo & Joe Murphy-DeBono
December 16, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers to the Buckley family. They were our neighbors for many years. Mr. Buckley always had a smile on his face and kind words. When the Buckley family to moved to another neighborhood, I could always count on seeing Mr. Buckley on the roads, running..and with a smile. He will be missed greatly.
Tom Hallinan
December 15, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to the Buckley family.
Tom and Kim Hallinan
Brian Kennedy
December 12, 2013
The times I saw him walking at the Lake or leaving mass, he always gave a warm smile and a heartfelt "How are you Brian?" "How is Sharon?" (my sister and student of his from 30 years ago?) His kind, familiar face and rare genuineness will be missed.
Lorene Beckley
December 12, 2013
My thoughts & prayers are with Sheila, & all the Buckley family.
John Lanicci
December 12, 2013
Mr. Buckley was a great teacher, coach, and friend. He had a tremendous influence on the lives of many young people, including myself. I had the pleasure of being in his Business Law class and also on the cross-country and track teams at CHSN in the mid 70's. He pushed me farther than I ever thought I could go, and I've taken those lessons and passed them along through my life to others. As many folks have noted, there was a long pipeline of his students who went on to Manhattan, and I did too. My condolences to his family and friends. While we're all sad at his passing, know that the world is a better place for his having been here.
John Lanicci, CHSN 75, Manhattan College '79
December 12, 2013
Mr. Buckley got me a job at Sears my Junior year. A very good man. He will be missed.
Diane Lamperti-Donney
December 11, 2013
Teachers are very lucky to have met a zillion students in the course of their career!! I am certain, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Coach Buckley influenced more than a zillion!! And besides that, he influenced me...a teacher , who is going to spread that to others,,,,he not only lived a great life...HE PAID IT FORWARD to future generations!!! There is no other person like him!!! He's in a better place and may his family not grieve, but continue to be joyful knowing his legacy lives on!!!
Mrs. Diane Lamperti Donney
December 11, 2013
I was a Cross Country student assistant in the 1977-1978 time frame. Coach Buckley was a true gentleman...and awesome teacher..a great mentor who gave great advice...He was well-known and well-liked in the community as well as in CHSN!! Now, as a teacher, I see what teachers influenced me....Mr. Buckley was definitely the TOP DOG in my book!!! What an amazing and Humble man!!! Love him...And, as a teacher , I want his family to find comfort in knowing that he influenced many, many students. He made a difference in our lives!! God Bless you all!! May Coach Buckley RIP!! I hope to continue your legacy!!
December 11, 2013
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time-Maura Camizzi Hersh
Peggy Turner (Torruella)
December 11, 2013
So sorry to hear of your loss.
Mr. Buckley was a WONDERFUL person and a GREAT business teacher. I will never forget him.
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over all of you.
December 11, 2013
You are all in my heart ... and I send this final prayer of the Church for the dearest of cousins:
"May the angels lead you into paradise, dear Jerry, and upon your arrival may the martyrs lift you up and lead you into the holy city of Jerusalem. May the choirs of angels receive you, and with Lazarus, that poor man, may you have eternal rest."
As Always - Eileen
Thomas Tesi
December 11, 2013
Mr. Buckley as I will always refer to him, had a lasting influence on my life. As a coach and mentor of a young unpolished athlete, he along with Mr. D, helped shape and mold me, instilling a committment to excellence and dedication necessary to achieve lofty goals despite obsticales and sacrifices, which I carried through my years of college, grad school and adult life. I will always be indebted to these men for the commitment and empathy they demonstrated in coaching and mentoring me and so many of my colleagues.
Bob Wanamaker
December 11, 2013
My deepest Condolences to the Buckley Family, Coach Buckley was a great influence on me. He taught me the value of commitment and dedication to one's goals. His influence continues with me today. Clarkstown H.S. North, class of 1977..
Anne & Lou Vicari
December 11, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Mike and Patricia Shea
December 11, 2013
Mr. Buckley was always a pleasure to talk to. I enjoyed the Jasper conversations and hearing of my husband Mike and his family throughout their childhood. I am lucky to have known him for 12 years and I will always remember him as a man who was intriguing to talk to and was so very proud of his entire family. We are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Kathleen Young
December 10, 2013
Sheila, so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Bill, Kathleen, Brandon & Kyle
Deacon Bob De Luca
December 10, 2013
I never met Jerry but as I read the obituary I feel as if I met him in and through his son and my colleague Jerry ....the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Be assured of my prayers for his happy repose and for the consolation of all those he left behind.
December 10, 2013
I am sorry for your loss,may he be with the angels. Toni Zaharakos
brenda young
December 10, 2013
So sorry for your loss. Prayers are with you. Love Brian and Brenda
Scott Weintraub
December 10, 2013
One of a kind.
December 10, 2013
JB was a beautiful person jn his looks,in his soul and in his actions.He deeply loved his Big Ten,his Jerry, Colleen and Patrick and especially his one and only Sheila.JB lived life proudly,honorably ,faithfully and with a great sense of humor.
We loved him. Kathleen and Harry
AURELIE Byrnes
December 10, 2013
So sorry for your loss Shelia. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Holly Williams
December 10, 2013
Sheila
We are sorry to hear about Jerry but know he now without pain. I know you are surrounded by a great family who who hold you dear and keep you strong.
We love you.
Gail Simon
December 10, 2013
I am so very sorry for your loss and the loss of such a wonderful person and mentor to my son. It was always a pleasure to see him running along Strawtown Road all through the years. Everyone who knew Jerry is truly blessed, myself included. Love, Gail
Paige Carlyle
December 10, 2013
Jerry,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you and your sweet family.
Love the Pacetti-Carlyle family
December 10, 2013
Condolences to the Buckley family. May the love of family and friends sustain ou during this difficult time.
Isaiah 12:2
Nancy
December 10, 2013
Sorry to hear of Mr. Buckley's passing. He was a gentleman & will be missed by all.
Manhattan College, Class of 1964
Rich Grimaldi
December 9, 2013
Having left NY over 40 years ago I've never met any of you, his family, but please accept my prayers and deepest sympathy on Jerry's passing. He was a teammate, a classmate, a good friend, and a Jasper to be very proud of.
Michael Kalb
December 9, 2013
May his memory be a blessing to the entire Buckley Family. He was an inspired teacher and DECA coach and helped make me the teacher that I am today. I remember his love and support for all of us. His passion was to give each student the skills to succeed not only in the classroom but also in life. With Great Admiration - Dr. Michael Greenspan Kalb, San Francisco, CA.
MaryAnn D'Antono
December 9, 2013
My condolences to the Buckley family. We have lost a true gentle man and one who made a lasting impression on many of us - his students. Thank you for the many gifts of life lessons you gave us to help prepare us for life after high school.
December 9, 2013
Dear Sheila and family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your tremendous loss! I pray that you will be warmed and lifted up by the wonderful memories you have of Jerry. My heart breaks for you, Sheila! You all are in our thoughts and prayers!
With deepest sympathy,
Georgette and Pete Hugger
December 9, 2013
A piece of my soul has left with Coach Buckley. I can visualize him running to the corner of the track yelling out split times and coaching us to victory. He steered my teamates and I to Manhattan College. A decision I will always thank him for since my daughter followed in those same footsteps. Coach Buckley had a million dollar smile. May the Lord comfort his family as he rests in peace and bless our Beloved Coach.
Bob Rampino Class of 67 Nazareth High School class of 71 Manhattan Colleg
Madeline Parker
December 9, 2013
So sorry, Sheila, to hear of your great loss. Although I never met your husband, I'm sure he was a kind, supportive and loving man. I know that you will be strong during this period of mourning. If I can be of any assistance to you, please don't hesitate to contact me. God bless you and your family during this difficult period.
Tom Sakell
December 9, 2013
Thank you, Mr. Buckley
Russ Woolley
December 9, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jerry. He was a wonderful teacher, and our friendship continued into my adluthood. His smile was always warm and engaging. He cared about all of his former students, and truly was interested in how my life was going. I wish I had been in touch with him in recent years. Please know he had a positive, profound affect on me, and I know he will surely be missed
Alexa Dove
December 9, 2013
Blessings of love and peace to Sheila, and all the family. Always in our heart?
My dear friend of 53 years, with me and fellow Jaspers Crowe, Mattis & Galvin @ Manhattan Track Reunion. You were the best of us.
Vin McArdle
December 9, 2013
nella dimuccio
December 9, 2013
Thinking of you and your family in a time of sorrow god bless
Jackie Hunter
December 9, 2013
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad.
God Bless you and your family.
Pat Smith
December 9, 2013
Heartfelt sympathy to the Buckley family for your loss.
December 9, 2013
What a beautiful tribute to an amazing man. His was a life well lived, and it shines through his family. God bless all of you.
fjohn reinke (mc1968)
December 9, 2013
The Manhattan College alumni community shares the grief, and is now praying for our fellow alumni and the family at this time. The Alumni Office has been informed. As well as the Jasper Jottings community that I personally can reach. We are all a little poorer now. "No man is an island, entire of itself ... any man's death diminishes me". We are sorry for your loss.
December 9, 2013
Condolences to the Buckley family. May the comfort of family and friends sustain you during this difficult time.
Job5:20
McVeigh Family
December 9, 2013
Love,Prayers and Deepest Sympathy on your tremendous loss. The McVeigh Family.
Daniel Sullivan
December 9, 2013
My last visit with Gerry was a joyous one: October 1st, 2011, the first ever Manhattan College Track & Field reunion. While the theme was Jasper Track, it quickly became a Nazareth Track reunion as well, as the dozens of us who, following Gerry's example, had attended Manhattan, gathered around him and stood for photo after photo with our Coach. We have lost a great friend and mentor, but we will never lose what we learned from this man. May he rest in peace.
Danny Sullivan
Nazareth HS '67, Manhattan College '71
Stuart Fitzpatrick
December 8, 2013
My deepest sympathies to Sheila and all members of the Buckley family. As a member of Jerry's "track family", I am deeply, deeply saddened by his loss. My prayers will be with all of you this week.
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