Obituary of Gerald J. Barry

Gerald Barry, Former Principal of Vineland High School Gerald Barry, age 92, entered eternal life on June 17, 2010. Beloved husband of 58 years to Marie (nee D'Ippolito); devoted father of Gerald, Jr. (Companion Deborah Nash); Maureen Sirois (Roland); Laura Barry; Barbara Westreich (Barry); and Stephen (Maureen); adored grandfather of Jerry, Brittany, William, Gregory, Thomas, Janna, Eric, Kelly, Francis, Brett, Matthew, Andrew, Jacob, Christina and Jessica. Jerry will also be missed by his eldest sister, Sr. Mary Elenita; his sister-in-law, Esther D'Ippolito; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. Originally from North Jersey, Jerry traveled extensively in pursuit of knowledge and excelled academically, earning a bachelor's degree from Catholic University, followed by advanced degrees from Villanova University, Rutgers University, as well as additional studies at LaSalle College, Georgetown University, the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, Quebec, Canada and abroad in France and Italy. Jerry was the first male student at Rosemont College in Bryn Mawr, PA. Jerry shared the fruits of his training as a teacher, dean of boys, assistant principal (1956-63) and ultimately as principal of Vineland High School (1964-86), enriching the lives of scores of students and colleagues over the years with his creative teaching style, vocabulary "gems" and personal warmth. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was implementation of the nation's first high school level Holocaust education courses. His quick wit and clever wordplay made him a highly sought-after master of ceremonies and public speaker. After retiring from Vineland High School in 1986, Jerry shifted his home to Ocean City, to spend more time with his wife, Marie, his children and grandchildren. He read passionately and was an avid sports fan, supporting the local teams but keeping a soft spot for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. He also brightened the day of passing beachgoers with his cheery greetings and assurances that any clouds would vanish by 11:00, earning him the unofficial title of "the Mayor of 31st Street". Jerry's magnificent spirit will be honored at viewings on Monday, June 21 from 6 -9 pm and on Tuesday, June 22 from 9:00 - 10 am at Rone Funeral Service 1110 E. Chestnut Ave, Vineland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday at 11 am at St. Isidore Church 1655 Magnolia Road, Vineland. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Jerry's honor at a charity of your choice. To send online condolences to the family, please visit our website at www.RoneFuneralService.com