Lawrence Gerona

Lawrence (Larry) Gerona, a man of profound faith and gentle spirit, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 1, 2026, in Ocala, Florida. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Larry spent over 35 years building a life and a legacy in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, before retiring to the warmth of Dunnellon, FL in 2005.

Throughout his years working in New York City, Larry's career encompassed many diverse roles, but his true professional passion was found in the years he served as the Commissioner of Sports for the New York Hotel Trades Council. He brought the same dedication and enthusiasm to his work that he did to every other aspect of his life.

Larry's life was defined by an unwavering devotion to his family. He is at long last reunited with the love of his life, Marie (Ferraiolo) Gerona-and she with her "LaLa"-and their beloved late children, Gina and Louis and his parents, Louis Gerona and Veronica (Tobin) Coakley. He was also the proud grandfather to Lou's golden retriever, "Winnie Girl".

A man who lived with "a smile on his face and a song in his heart," Larry was known for his steadfast faith and relentless positivity. His passion for singing entertained us for so many years. Regardless of what life's journey presented to him, he remained a source of strength and kindness. He was a treasured husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend-his passing leaves a profound void, but his legacy of love, kindness, and strength will last forever.

Larry is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Ellen "Nini" and Tom Petropole (predeceased); his brother Jimmy Coakley and his girlfriend Diane; his brother and sister-in-law, John "Jackie" and Grace Coakley, his brother-in-law, Oneil Ferraiolo, and his wife Rose (predeceased).

A devoted uncle, Larry will be lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Andrea (predeceased), Sia, Christina (predeceased), Gabriella, Jimmy, Michael, Addy, Ronnie, Debra, Neil (predeceased) and his wife Anna.

He was a treasured husband, father, brother, uncle and friend-his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Service Information

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the following times:

Visitation: Monday, from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Patrick J. Conte Funeral Home, 274 Market Street, Elmwood Park. New Jersey
Funeral Mass: Tuesday at 9:30 am at St. Leo's R.C. Church, Elmwood Park, New Jersey
Burial: To follow at George Washington Memorial Cemetery, Paramus., New Jersey
Memorial Donations

Donations in Larry's memory may be made to:

The American Diabetes Association
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
The Little League Organization