Gerald Jonas

Sadly, we announce the passing of Gerald “Jerry” Alex Jonas on February 4, 2025 at Carolina Meadows in Chapel Hill, NC. He was born in Brooklyn, NY on May 20, 1927 and leaves a long legacy of love and influence among those who had the gift of knowing him. He had great clarity of purpose; he prioritized his family and was an exceptional husband and father. Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Marilyn Kramer Jonas as well three children: Cara, Beth and David (Sherry) and 5 grandchildren Joshua (Jennifer), Ilana, Annie, Halley (Shannon), Abby and a special grand-nephew Lucas.

Gerald’s formative years took place in East NY Brooklyn where he lived with his parents Anna and Abraham until enlisting in the Navy to join the fight to protect America during WWII. A lifelong artist, reader and educator, at the conclusion of the war, he completed an undergraduate degree at SUNY Oswego and MA in Education at New York University.

Jerry began as a teacher of Industrial Arts at Oceanside Junior High School on Long Island. Importantly, this is when he met Marilyn, and they began their life-long courtship and adventure. After a decade he was elevated to a new role as district supervisor for Industrial Arts, Home Economics and Business programs throughout the Oceanside Union Free School District. Gerald influenced the careers and professional development of countless teachers, and moreover, instilled the love of the arts in thousands of children.

Post retirement there was more time for building furniture, exploring the arts, meditation, reading, golf, grandkids and travel. He traveled many places, going with Marilyn and their dearest friends to nearly all the continents (except Antarctica).

A graveside service will take place on Friday February 7th at 11am at Judea Reform Cemetery (2560 Jones Ferry Road Chapel Hill, NC 27516). The family requests that in lieu of flowers that you consider sending a donation to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) at www.parentprojectmd.org.

Shiva will be held at the home of the deceased at 526 Hawthorne Drive Chapel Hill, NC 27517 on Saturday February 8th from 7-8:30pm and Sunday February 9th from 4-5:30pm.