Jay Robert Alperson

Jay R. Alperson, 72, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, formerly of Escondido, California died on August 10, 2021. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Jay was the third son of Rose Levy Alperson and Irving I. Alperson. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Oberlin College, graduating in 1970 with a double major in physics and psychology. He was the Concert Master of the Oberlin Conservatory Orchestra. Jay completed his graduate work at Princeton and University of Oregon, receiving a PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Oregon. Early in his career as a clinical psychologist, Jay devoted his talents to the mental health needs of incarcerated people. He joined the faculty of Palomar College in San Marcos California in 1977, where he held the position of Professor in the Department of Behavioral Sciences. During his more than three decades of teaching at Palomar, Jay dedicated himself in helping students to a range of courses that included, Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Behavioral Statistics. As a teacher, Jay possessed the rare capacity to share his knowledge without ever making the learner feel inferior or stupid. He was a pioneer in computer-assisted instruction, designing and consulting and the founder of the very first computer net workings in his college library. Jay is credited with introducing students to learning techniques that ranged from simulations and tutorials to nondirective interviewing techniques and more. After he founded his college computer lab and served as a director, he stepped forward to serve as a consultant sharing his knowledge of new technology net workings and design with other local institutions of higher learning. Jay received the first place for Outstanding Achievement Award for Best Classroom Lesson Using Multimedia Technology in 1999. His research focused on a wide range of topics including the benefits of self-administered pain management, behavioral treatments for insomnia, and strategies to address phobias. Outside the classroom, Jay excelled in everything - from radio and car mechanics to home repair, motorcycling, and computer technology. He could take apart any mechanical gadget, fix it, and put it back together effortlessly. His kindness and generosity of spirit were unbounded. He was a life-long musician, playing clarinet, saxophone, and piano. During his graduate studies, Jay supported himself by sitting in with various music groups in Oregon. He was a member of the popular quartet, "The Upstairs Jazz Club" which played regularly in venues in the greater San Diego area. Jay found his greatest joy in the life he built with his beloved wife, Sunny, and their manifold academic adventures together, camping, biking, walking, tango dancing, bread-making, beautifying their homes, playing Pickle Ball and music, or exploring the inlets of lakes in their pontoon. Later in his life, Jay was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Throughout this period, Jay maintained the best quality of life with the assistance of his dear wife Sunny. His delightful sense of humor was in never short of supply. Jay played Pickle Ball with friends until the pandemic hit. He explored and appreciated the beauty of nature with Sunny in their Pontoon boat. Most of all, treasured the strong bond he shared with his wife Sunny, his soul mate. Jay is survived by his wife, Dr. Sunny Alperson of Virginia Beach, and his two brothers, Dr. Burt Alperson of Los Angeles, CA, and Dr. Philip Alperson of Philadelphia, PA. Jay’s full circle of life completion will be celebrated on his 73 Birthday. Jay’s wife Sunny and family wish to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from friends and neighbors. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Jay's honor can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org Local chapter VA Beach APDA.