Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
RICHARD SAFERSTEIN Obituary
July 28, 2017, of Mt. Laurel, NJ. Husband of Gail Saferstein. Father of Sharon (James) Brophy and Neal Saferstein. Grandfather of Xavier and Gabrielle Brophy. Brother of Rochelle (Bernie Nicki) Saferstein. As a leading national expert and prolific author in the field of forensic science, Dr. Saferstein headed the crime laboratory of the New Jersey State Police for 21 years until his retirement in 1991. He continued to be a highly sought after consultant, participating in a multitude of high profile cases throughout the country. Dr. Safersteins' books, including the well-known "Criminalistics," continue to be the leading textbook in most forensic science programs in the United States. Relatives and friends are invited Wednesday, beginning 1pm, Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc., 2001 Berlin Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ where memorial services will begin promptly at 2pm. Shiva will be observed at the late residence. Contributions may be made to Chabad of Gloucester County, www.jewishgloucester.com or Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice, www.samaritannj.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD SAFERSTEIN
Linda Thomas
March 28, 2025
Dr. Saferstein was a joy to work with and to be around. He came to Alaska to help with a case, in which the defendant had been overcharged. With his help, we successfully defended a first degree murder case, with a second degree murder conviction. The judge commented that our trial was one of the best he had ever seen among all involved. Dinner out with Dr. Saferstein was great fun! He was kind and funny with all of us, including my non-law husband. He expressed such pride in his children (back in the late 1990's) to us when we were at dinner. However brief, I am grateful that our paths crossed. My sympathy, empathy, and condolences to all his loved ones.
Joe Chizik and Jane
July 28, 2022
We often think of Richard and his family. We miss him. We were honored to be a small part of of his life. We hope everybody is doing well.
Shmuel Zitrin
August 2, 2021
My good friend - miss you
Sharon
July 23, 2021
Happy 80th dad! I hope you danced the night away! We love and miss you every day.
Sharon Brophy
July 27, 2020
Dad, it has been the three hardest years of my life. You are so missed and I have so much to tell you. We love you so much. Thank you for visiting when I need you the most. Until I see you again.
All my love always,
Sharon
Thomas Dowling
September 13, 2017
This is sad news. Dr. Saferstein was a friend, though I hadn't seen him in person in years. When I worked at Liberty Science Center, his texts and other assistance was key to developing our forensic science programs. A giant in his field, he will be missed. My condolences to the family.
Bill Cosby
August 31, 2017
Dr. Saferstein helped immensely with my character in the television series,
The Cosby Mysteries. His education, his intelligence and his candor enabled
me to make my character, Guy Hanks, sound like a real doctor of forensics.
Thank you, Richard Saferstein.
Bill Cosby
Xavier Brophy
August 29, 2017
My Pop Pop was a great man and there is no way I will ever forget him. I will miss you working with me on my chemistry sets. We always had fun and being around him are some of the greatest memories I have had. I will miss going over to his house and having him greet me the way he always did. I will miss him playing with my sister and always making her laugh. I miss him every day and he will continue to inspire me to excel in school. I miss you and I love you Pop Pop.
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Richard Saferstein
August 29, 2017
Gabrielle Brophy
August 29, 2017
Pop Pop I miss you and I love you every single day.
Sandy Schargel
August 29, 2017
From the time I was born - 5 months after Richie - we were together. We shared a crib when our mom's (who were sisters) got together, which was very often. We were a VERY close family. Sooooo many memories of my dear Richie! When he was 5 years old, he had spinal meningitis and was in isolation. The nurse said that he wanted Coke Cola and Sandy. We spent weekends together throughout our childhood and many summers in the Catskill mountains at Valley View - which we both hated because there was no swimming pool and no swing set. We went berry picking - that was fun. Richie was so handsome - movie star handsome. For his Bar Mitzvah, I taught him how to do the waltz. He loved to imitate Al Jolson and did a wonderful rendition of "Mamie" - got down on his knees and all the hand movements were just perfect. Richie was always the consummate student.He was the only guy at my all girls Sweet 16 luncheon. When he had mono and was out of school for a long period of time, his homework assignments were sent home and he spent his time studying.
When he was going to CCNY and working at the same time, he had been given a key to the chemistry lab so that he can do his experiments. His first 'real' job was government position and his job was to go to catering halls, bars, etc. and test the liquor (not ingest!) to be sure that what was on the label was in the bottle. So many memories! I will miss him and the twinkle in his eyes and the 'sly' way he smiled. He will always have a special place in my heart.
August 29, 2017
Dear Saferstein Family,
Although Mr. Saferstein seemed to be a very quiet and private man, as I sit and read and listen to you all remember him, he seemed quite the opposite! May you cherish and hold your memories dear and always feel the love that he gave to each of you individually. That love was special to each of you and may that love protect you and guide you through your grief. He was truly a special man and brought so much to the community, but most importantly he loved his family so much. Wishing you all peace, strength and love.
Love,
Laura Temoyan (Sophie & Nina too)
Harris Safra
August 29, 2017
Not only did I loose a business partner,but I lost a friend..and a brother. Rich and I have been through alot together. He was truly a special unique man. . I will miss his daily calls.. May he rest in peace..I will truly miss him..
Eric Jung
August 29, 2017
"Richie" (as my father called him) and my father, Marty Jung, were fraternity brothers and then good friends later in life, until 2011 when my father died. The stories I heard about their fraternity days together were legendary. For example, they traveled the NYC subway after rubbing their bodies and armpits with the smelliest cheese they could find (limburger cheese) then stood in the subway cars with the arms raised, holding the straps... just to "troll" people, as we would call it today. There were other crazy stories, too.
Later in life, sometime in the 1990s with the popularity of email, they reconnected. Marty always had great things to say about Richie. He considered Richie one of his closest friends and enjoyed his company very much.
Richie published a criminology textbook, I believe in its 6th or 7th edition at the time, and asked my father, who was a lifelong target shooter and gun enthusiast, for his editorial advice on the ballistics section of the book. My father was absolutely thrilled to help. Richie gave him a few copies, one of which was given to me. I still have that book.
I hope they are together again, having BBQs together, laughing about the old times but also making new memories.
Joe Chizik
August 29, 2017
Jane and I had the privilege to know Richard, both professionally and personally. His warmth and happiness will always be in our hearts and thoughts.
He invited us into his and your family life.
I hope I was there for your family when Rich called on me.
We will miss him.
Rachel Brophy
August 28, 2017
Wishing you loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Xoxo
John and Terry Perazza
August 28, 2017
My husband, John and I met Rich in May, 1986. We moved into the house right behind Rich's house in Mt. Laurel, NJ. We had the pleasure of being his neighbor and he was a wonderful neighbor and sweet friend. I remember, so well, the very first time Rich spoke to me. I was in my backyard chasing after my two year old while holding my two-month in my arms. He called over to me saying: "Hello, I'm Rich." And I just had to reply with: "Hi, I'm Poor." He laughed and enjoyed my weird sense of humor and we became friends immediately. Rich was a warm friendly person, very sweet, always helpful, and very generous. John and I miss you dearly, Rich. Rest In Peace. We love you, dear friend!
Erica Bauman
August 28, 2017
Dear Cousin,
I knew my grandmother, your aunt, traveled to be with you many years ago during a time of need. I was thinking about this as I made plans to travel to see you while you were ill. I'm sorry that I was too late to thank you in person, for the timely help you were to me in a time of need on her behalf. It is because of her bond with the family that I grew to have my own. Both of you were absolutely right: family is the most important thing. Thank you for making it a point to remind us of this even in the midst of your pain. I hope we continue to remind you of the good there is in this world. I hope we continue to be present for each other in times of joy and times of need carrying the best of you, and the others we've loved and lost, with us into those moments. Thank you for being a person who left the world a better place than he found it. May we continue to honor your memory by doing the same.
Much love and gratitude,
Erica
Joseph Giacalone
August 28, 2017
Richard was and always will be a gentleman. I had the pleasure of speaking with him on a few occasions and was just fascinated by his knowledge of forensic science. He was a giant in the field who's insight will be sorely missed. Rest In Peace my friend.
Lum Farr
August 8, 2017
Myself and two colleagues started the first Associate Degree program in Forensic Science in the State of Texas. Two of my other Colleagues started a Forensic Crime Scene Academy and Dr. Saferstein was so gracious to come by Weatherford College and meet with the Forensic Class as well as the Academy class and speak to these young students and professionals.
His schedule was so busy but his heart always went out to those who chose to pursue a forensic career.
I am proud to have know Dr. Saferstein and he was a role model for me during my career. My heart and prayers go out to the family. He will be missed by those who knew him and respected his profession.
Bob Epstein
August 6, 2017
Rich and I first met at the City College of New York in 1960, where we became fraternity brothers and life-long friends. Rich was an adventurous individual and needed an outlet from the 3-hour daily subway commute to school, the long hours of classes and laboratory work. The antics at Phi Sigma Delta were the perfect release. As a pledge the brothers trained Rich in traffic control and he spent a little time directing traffic on busy Flatbush Avenue. We went to real places in New Jersey with strange sounding names such as, Foul Rift and New Egypt, just to see what was there. The 69th St. ferry ride from Brooklyn to Staten Island was always an adventure, especially the monastery visits. Rich loved dining at our basement haunt in Chinatown and going to night court for free entertainment. Back then Rich helped plan the exploits of the fraternity pledges, especially observing the reactions of unsuspecting subway passengers to strap-hanging pledges with limburger cheese. Rich was a free spirit then and had a ball.
Rich surprised us by coming in a chauffeured limousine to Lindas 50th birthday party. The limo sat in front of our house, catching the attention of guests and neighbors. Rich loved going to Atlantic City, dining at the delis and playing blackjack at the $2 table until the wee hours of the morning. I can still hear his voice, saying hey, Bob, so distinctly.
Over the past 57 years Rich and I shared good times and difficult times. Rich was a wonderful friend and more like a brother. He was truly a mensch in every sense and we will miss him. May his memory always be a blessing. Linda and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Gail and the Saferstein family.
Michael Cerisano
August 5, 2017
Many years ago as a young NJ State Trooper I was about to testify at one of my first DWI trials in municipal court. I was apprehensive and the only witness for the State. Then Dr. Saferstein walked in. At the time, I did not know of his status as head of the state crime lab, but I recognized that the Court and others present did. He was a gentleman and treated me as a seasoned veteran. He took the time to explain his testimony to me and I came away with a good understanding of the science. It was not until years later that I recognized his status and understood that he took the time from his position to assist me. As a trooper, attorney, and criminal justice teacher, I used his many texts through the years. I only wish I could have thanked him for his kindness and the impression he made on a young trooper many years ago. Thank you Dr. Saferstein. My condolences to his family. May he rest in eternal peace.
GRAHAM JONES
August 4, 2017
The forensics science world has just lost a key figure. He was a true scholar with a penchant for the challenge and through his actions and unbridled enthusiasm has inspired a generation to follow in his footsteps.
James Crippin
August 4, 2017
Rich was a hell of a guy. He made an everlasting mark on the forensic world. RIP my friend.
Joseph Tafuni
August 3, 2017
I met Dr. Saferstein as a newly appointed NJ State Police Breath Test Coordinator in 1987. I spent quite a bit of time learning about the responsibilities of this prestigious position by this gentleman. I even had him sign my copy of his textbook. I was honored to know him and to work with him. Rest in peace sir.
Edward Diamond
August 2, 2017
Gail,
I am sorry to hear that your beloved Richard has passed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Al and Terry Sorichetti
August 2, 2017
We are saddened to hear of the loss of Rich. Our condolences and prayers are with you and your family . We hope memories of times shared with him will give some comfort . We made a donation to Samaritan Healthcare and Hospice in his name . May God bless you and your family . Sincerely Terry and Al Sorichetti
Carol and Michael Rose
August 2, 2017
In the more than half century of our friendship with Richard Saferstein, and with a common background and foundational experience, we've shared our successes, milestones and struggles. Over the years, our life paths have diverged and grown ever more complex. Nevertheless, Rich always sought ways for us to touch base and re-experience those deep connections from times past. With Gail at his side, we've maintained a strong bond and consistent contact. We will miss Rich deeply. We hope we can be a source of support for Gail and the Saferstein children as they enter this new chapter.
Gary
August 2, 2017
I met Rich 20 years ago when I was a Criminal Justice Editor at Glencoe Publishing Co. For the past 4 years, I have been his Editor at Pearson Education. He was unquestionably the leader in his field and a great partner in education. It is very sad to see him go. My condolences to Gail and his family.
Arthur Young
August 2, 2017
When I first started in this field in 1991, my predecessor had already left, so I didn't have anyone to train me. The director said, "Here's the library, your section is here, but you should probably start with Saferstein's handbook."
In 2004, at the American Academy conference in Dallas, I had a poster presentation on the identification of human saliva, and a fellow came up and asked me a lot of questions. He then offered his hand and said, "Hi, I'm Rich Saferstein." I was speechless after that.
We would bump into each other at conferences after that, and he always had a smile. In 2016, we met for lunch one day, and I, a journeyman now in this field, brought my copies of the _Forensic Science Handbook_, for him to sign. I will cherish these forever.
Thank you for showing me the way.
Requiescat in pace,
Arthur
Kenneth Vercammen
August 1, 2017
Dr. Saferstein was my go to guy for many years as an expert. His opinion was trusted by judges and prosecutors. He was a gentleman and I will miss him at meetings.
Jeffrey Hark
August 1, 2017
I just finished a case with Dr. Saferstein as my expert. We had spoken numerous times over the preceding few months. I am shocked and saddened by his passing! My thoughts are with is family!!
John Krenzel
August 1, 2017
I knew Dr. Saferstein professionally. He was not only knowledgeable but also a gentleman. He will be missed. Rest in Peace.
August 1, 2017
Dear Saferstein Family,
I was so sad and bereaved to learn of Richard's passing. I was surprised because we had not worked together in the last year or so, even though, I had the privilege and honor of working with him in the past decades. He was a giant in the field of Forensic Toxicology. We won scores of Trials together in Philadelphia and surrounding counties over the past many years. Whenever, I had a DUI Trial I knew that all I had to do was call Richard's cell phone to know that Rich was on my side and the case was virtually won at that moment. I will miss him greatly. I will be there to say goodbye on Wednesday.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Allen Sigman
Sharon Brophy
August 1, 2017
Words can't express my pain. I love you and miss you so much Dad.
Dr Karl Verebey, DABFT
July 31, 2017
I lost a friend and a neighbor in Sunny Isles
Beach Fl. Hi will be missed much! The best
wishes to his wife Gail his children and grand children, we miss him so much!
Helene Mitauer
July 31, 2017
Dear Gail, Sharon and the Saferstien family, Sad for your heartache and loss. My sincerest sympathy and prayers to all. May Rich rest in peace.
Sandra Pfeiffer
July 30, 2017
I had the good fortune to meet Rich at a deposition and shortly thereafter to buy his and Gail's former house in the best neighborhood. Rich was a brilliant expert but also a good friend. Rest in peace, Rich. You will be missed.
Bonnie Burton
July 30, 2017
To Gail and Sharon and the rest of the Saferstein family,
I'm so sorry for the loss of a great man, husband, father and friend. My deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. May he Rest In Peace.
Sending my love,
Bonnie Burton
Vincent Cordova
July 30, 2017
I knew Richard well , and would like to send my sincere condolences to his wife and other family members.
He was without a doubt one the greatest forensic scientists of all times.
His contributions to the field of Forensic Sciences were without equal.
The family should be proud of so great a man.
His expertise will be sincerely missed.
Mark Lewis
July 30, 2017
I am sorry to have learned that Dr. Saferstein has passed away. He will be missed by many.
John Reffner
July 30, 2017
We have lost a friend and a real champion of Forensic Science. His loss will be felt by all who knew him, called him friend and learned from his works.
July 30, 2017
Dear Gail & family
Betty & I loved him. He was areal mensch, we
Will miss him a great deal.
We are glad that we got a chance to see him and all if u in June.
Izzy & Izzy. Tamarac, Florida
Shmuel Zitrin
July 30, 2017
A great loss of a true friend. Will be missed by the international forensic community as well as by his family and his many friends. I first met him in 1972, trying to recover from the disastrous explosion in his home. Since then we have become close friends. Many scientists in the Israeli forensic lab owe their promotion to the excellent recommandations written by Rich...
Will always be remembered
Sharon Brophy
July 30, 2017
My dad loved the NY Times, especially the Sunday edition. We could have gone on and on with his accomplishments, but then the Times would not have space to print the news. The comments speak for themselves. He was a brilliant man with a legacy that will live on.
Anthony DiFlorio
July 29, 2017
Richard was a kind, generous, humble man. It is fitting that he should have a simple death notice, even though his great accomplishments merited a full obituary in all the major newspapers. He will be missed by all who knew him and worked with him.
Rich loved Frank Sinatra. When I first met him twenty years ago, he invited me and Fran Casella to his home and then he gave me an iPod fully loaded with Sinatra recordings.
Kim Huynh-Ba
July 29, 2017
Our deepest condolences to Gail and the family!
Mark Bauman
July 29, 2017
My condolences to Gail and your children. As you know, I met you and Rich many years ago as fellow CCNY alum, and then took care of all of you as patients.
Rafael Silva
July 29, 2017
Meeting Richard and Gale at the AAFS DC meeting was a great memory to me. I loved that they proudly shared with me photos of their grandson in a little tuxedo. Being a grandfather myself I totally appreciated their gleaming sentiments. With his professional stature Richard still exuded a classy foundation of centered humanity. Throughout the days there he was so gracious to me, essentially a nobody by comparison. I shall never forget him.
Heather Dubnick
July 29, 2017
May his memory be for a blessing.
George Singley
July 29, 2017
I tried many DUI cases with Dr. Saferstein and there was never any doubt that he was always the smartest guy in the room. He had a compelling command of his science and a zealous desire to defend his opinions but he was always honest and fair. His passing is the end of an era. God Bless you all.
Showing 1 - 60 of 60 results
Make a Donation
in RICHARD SAFERSTEIN's name
Memorial Events
for RICHARD SAFERSTEIN
Aug
2
Visitation
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc. - Cherry Hill2001 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Aug
2
Memorial service
2:00 p.m.
Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc. - Cherry Hill2001 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Funeral services provided by:
Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc. - Cherry Hill2001 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
How to support RICHARD's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor RICHARD SAFERSTEIN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
