Gary Bailin

Gary Bailin passed away peacefully at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of love, intellect, humor, and quiet strength. Born and raised in New York, Gary carried with him throughout his life the warmth, wit, resilience, and understated charm that defined everything he did.

Gary dedicated his professional life to the education of future physicians as a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey’s School of Osteopathic Medicine. He was deeply committed to science, discovery, and teaching, and he took great pride in helping shape generations of medical students.

Beyond his career, Gary was a dedicated community member. He served as a past Vice President of Temple Neve Shalom in Metuchen, New Jersey, and was an active volunteer and President of the J.P. Stevens Marching Band Parent Association. A devoted and proud father, he never missed one of his daughters’ band performances and could always be found cheering them on from the stands.

Outside the classroom and community, Gary was a man of deep and joyful passions. He was a devoted fan of Laurel and Hardy, could lose himself in the sweeping compositions of John Williams, and had a lifelong love of opera and classical music. He also never lost his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures — a beautiful day, gardening, landscaping and especially Devil Dogs and Entenmann’s treats, which brought him happiness right to the very end. Those who knew him best will remember him as a gentle soul with a dry wit and a sense of humor sharper than he ever gave himself credit for.

For more than 22 years, Gary lived bravely with Parkinson’s disease. He faced the challenges of the illness with determination, curiosity, and remarkable perseverance, closely following advances in Parkinson’s research until his final days. His strength and resilience were an inspiration to those around him.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of more than 54 years, Ellen, who was, in every sense, his everything. Together they created a beautiful family, home and wonderful memories through travel and everyday life. He is also survived by his brother, Fred Bailin; his two daughters, Alison and Leslie, both of whom he raised with boundless pride — one who followed in his scientific footsteps as a pharmacist and patient advocate, and the other who shapes young minds as a third-grade teacher. Both inherited his love of music and carry cherished memories of Gary cheering them on through every note of their band years. He also shared a special bond with his son-in-law, Eric, whom he loved like his own son and trusted with his care and health until the very end.

He is further survived by his four beloved grandchildren — Jacob, Matthew, Ryan, and Jack — who share his love of music, Star Wars, the New York Rangers, and the New York Mets — and yes, even the two grandsons who inexplicably root for the Yankees. Gary loved each of them dearly and unconditionally.

Gary Bailin was a man who gave quietly, loved deeply, and faced life with grace, intellect, humor, and courage. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, The Parkinson’s Foundation or to Temple Beth Shalom in Gary’s memory.

Funeral Services will be held at Bernheim-Apter-Kreitzman Suburban Funeral Chapel, 68 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston, NJ 07039, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 9:00 am. The family will be receiving guests from 8:15am-8:45am. The burial will follow at New Montefiore Cemetery, 1180 Wellwood Ave, West Babylon, NY 11704.