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GARY LEFER Obituary

LEFER--Gary. Gary Lefer passed away on August 3, 2024, at the age of 83 in New York, NY. Gary dedicated his professional life to helping others, serving as a psychiatrist for over 55 years. He held degrees from Stanford University and Georgetown University Medical School. While Gary was respected and beloved by his patients and colleagues, his joy in life was loving his family, a purpose he enjoyed and thrived at above all else. Whether it was bedtime tuck-ins with Yiddish lullabies, goofy Mel Brooks one-liners, middle of the night calls of support, or strolls to his favorite bench in Riverside Park, Gary was always there for his family with a patient word of encouragement and thoughtful advice. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cissy; children, Kate, Anna, and Max; grandchildren, Hannah, Birdie, Abraham, Scarlett, Olivia and Jasper; children-in-law, Chris, Amanda, and Jonathan; and his sister, Esther. Gary passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. The family thanks Fati and Lisholme for his care.

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Published by New York Times on Aug. 11, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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Eric Arzubi

April 1, 2025

Dr. Gary Lefer pulled me out of a dark place.

He was my first psychiatrist and the one I remember most vividly. In 1999, he diagnosed and treated my severe anxiety while I was trying to make the transition from Wall Street to medical school. Thanks to him, I was able to complete my pre-med program and ultimately attended the Yale School of Medicine.

Now I'm a board certified child psychiatrist delivering care to patients in and around Montana. Dr. Lefer made me feel human again. He was also my first psychiatrist role model. I hope I'm making him proud.

Single Memorial Tree

Eric Arzubi, MD

Planted Trees

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Cathy Casriel

Planted Trees

Lois Dorman

August 12, 2024

Heartbreaking to hear. He was a deeply caring person. We worked together and I have such fond memories. He adored his family. Rest in peace. My respects to his loved ones. Lois

Robin Fried

August 11, 2024

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Gary. I always enjoyed seeing his handsome face on West End Ave.! Cissy I am so sorry. Please accept my sincere condolences. Love from ROBIN.

Alicia Knight

August 11, 2024

I´m sorry for the sadness and loss of this intelligent, strong, loving gentleman. He touched many and most importantly, the ones he loved the most, his family.
Peace and love to you all

Ellen Tabor, MD

August 11, 2024

Gary hired me to work under his supervision at Roosevelt Hospital. He was a gracious and supportive mentor, brilliant psychiatrist and friend. I will miss him.

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