Schools

Obituary: Gerald G. Palaia, 93, Who Helped Shape Long Branch Schools

Palaia also served in World War II during the battles of Guadalcanal, Okinawa and Guam

Gerald G. Palaia

AGE: 93 • Neptune

Gerald G. Palaia, age 93, of Neptune, died Sunday, July 13, 2014 at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Born in Neptune, Jerry was a lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore. He graduated from Neptune High School class of 1938 and attended Rider College graduating June 1942. He was a decorated Marine Corps veteran, attaining the rank of Major, who served in World War II during the battles of Guadalcanal, Okinawa and Guam. He dedicated his life's work to the field of education, retiring after 42 years of service, 32 of which were to the Long Branch School District as one of the exceptional school Principals who pioneered many of the educational innovations and practices currently in place in the district today. Jerry was a long time coach and sports enthusiast. While a coach at Jenkintown High School; he won two consecutive Pennsylvania State Basketball Championships. He was also an active leader in the NJ principals Association, Long Branch Shore YMCA and Monmouth County Boy Scouts. 

He was predeceased by his wife of 50 over years, Marie Stout Palaia in 2003. He is survived by his brother Senator Joseph A. Palaia (R-11) ret. of Ocean Twp.; sister, Elizabeth Rosenstein of Ocean Twp.; daughter Jane Palaia of Oceanport; daughter Nancy Palaia of Oakhurst, daughter Susan Jarosiewicz and her husband Dave of Neptune; and two granddaughters Gianna Verdoni and Nicole Marie Daniele both of Ocean Twp. He was predeceased by Sister, Francis DeRosa 1961; three Brothers, George Palaia 2009, Ralph Palaia 2005 and Jimmy Palaia 1925. 

Francioni, Taylor & Lopez is in charge of arrangements, 1200 10th and Atkins Ave, Neptune. Visitation will be Tues. July 15, 2014 from 6 to 8pm . Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers please make donation in his name to "Wounded Warrior Project" P.O.Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.


- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/app/obituary.aspx?n=Gerald-Palaia&pid=171717219#sthash.28s5Zosd.dpu...


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