Joseph Jerry Mandel

It is with immense sorrow that the family of one proud former Bronx boy, Joseph Jerry Mandel, announces his passing on April 8, 2022 in Delray Beach, Fl. His devoted daughter Ronna of Los Angeles was by his side. Jerry, as he was affectionately known, would have been 94 in June. He was pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Sally in 2005. The couple had been been married since 1953 and lived in Great Neck for over 30 years. They raised two children, Ronna and Warren (of Long Island) and shared many interests including their children, and extended family, close friendships, travel, the American Southwest, antiquing, art, museums, theater and even shopping.

In 2006 Jerry found love and companionship a second time with Lee Brushman of Coral Lakes in Boynton Beach less than five minutes from his home in Avalon Estates, also in Boynton Beach. Jerry was a larger than life character with a charming, caring personality. He could be counted on to check in with friends who were experiencing tough times even when he himself was not feeling well. Frequently people turned to Jerry for advice and he always put his own needs second to theirs.

Jerry looked forward to playing poker weekly for the last 18 years where his humor and skill will be greatly missed. Happy when cruising or on the dance floor, above all else Jerry derived boundless joy from his two grandchildren, Gemma and Coleman Sokol of London and CalLutheran University respectively. He also shared a creative passion for writing like his daughter. He composed essays, poems, jingles, short stories and even invented product names. Jerry, who began working at age 13 after losing his father, put himself through CCNY. He met his wife, Sally, while working at Unity Printing + Rubber Stamps which he eventually bought. Jerry sold his business, by then called Unity Engraving, before retiring to Florida in 2002 with Sally. It was there he reconnected with old friends from his days in the National Guard and took advantage of the many opportunities south Florida’s warm clime offered.

Jerry is survived by his son Warren Mandel, his wife Alyson, his daughter Ronna Mandel, her husband Dan Sokol and their children, Gemma and Coleman. The family was truly blessed to have had so many wonderful, loving years with Jerry. Those wishing to honor his life can make a donation in his name to either the American Heart Association or Hadassah.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.riversidestanetsky.com for the Mandel family.