Jeffrey Walter Gaynor

Jeffrey Walter Gaynor, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on September 14, 1942, in Jamaica, Queens, to Walter and Veronica Gaynor, Jeffrey's life was a testament to devotion, service, and love.

Jeffrey grew up in Dumont, NJ, and graduated from Bergen Catholic High School in 1960. He continued his education at Mount St. Mary's College, earning a BS degree in 1964. With a deep sense of duty, Jeffrey served as a US Navy officer during the Vietnam War, a period that shaped his commitment to service and leadership. After his military service, Jeffrey embarked on a successful career as the owner of an accounting business for over 30 years. He later joined the US Department of Labor, where he served with distinction for 31 years, retiring as Deputy Regional Director with the honor of a gold shield.

Jeffrey's greatest pride and joy came from his family. He was a deeply devoted husband to Joanne Gaynor (nee Agin) for 59 years. Together, they built a life filled with love and devotion. Jeffrey was a loving father to Julie Mower (nee Gaynor) along with her husband Chuck Mower, and to his son Jeffrey Gaynor, Jr. and his wife Michelle Meyer. He was a dedicated Pop to his grandson Zack Mower, his wife Christine and a cherished great-grandfather to little Jude. Jeffrey is also survived by his beloved brother Kevin Gaynor, his wife Geri, and his sister Claire Holdsworth (nee Gaynor), her husband Rich, along with many nieces and nephews who held him in great affection.

Jeffrey was a passionate supporter of The Phoenix Center, an organization dedicated to helping students with special needs. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Jeffrey's honor to The Phoenix Center, 16 Msgr. Owens Place, Nutley, NJ 07110, or online at www.thephoenixcenternj.org

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 3rd, from 12pm to 4pm. Jeffrey touched the lives of many with his kindness and unwavering commitment, and his presence will be profoundly missed.

Rest in peace, Jeffrey. Your legacy of love and service will endure in the hearts of those you leave behind.