Gerald "Jerry" Buonomo

Gerald “Jerry” Buonomo, 79, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024.

Born and raised in Paterson, Jerry was the second child of Gerard and Asunta (Minieri) Buonomo. A true character with a spirited personality, Jerry made life anything but dull. During his time at Eastside High School, he earned a reputation for standing up for himself—perhaps too boldly, as one infamous incident of “hanging a classmate out a window by his ankles” proved. Despite this colorful episode resulting Jerry’s permanent dismissal, he earned his high school diploma and later attended Passaic County Community College.

Between high school and college, Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1966 and in the U.S. Army Reserves for five additional years. His service to his country earned him the National Defense Service Medal, a testament to his patriotism and dedication.

Jerry spent an impressive 45 years as a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, primarily in Wayne. His daily routes took him to the Willowbrook Mall, where he became a beloved figure among storeowners, often earning heartfelt discounts for his friendliness and consistently excellent work. One can only imagine how many steps he logged over the decades—what a number that would be with a smart watch!

Jerry’s love story with Diane Colyer is the stuff of romantic comedies. After each had experienced first marriages, fate brought them together at Lou Duva’s Club (now a CVS Pharmacy) on Union Boulevard in Totowa during a Coasters concert. Captivated by Diane, Jerry sent her a drink and a rose before serenading her with his smooth tenor voice. Their first night together included a sunrise at the Jersey Shore—an unmistakable sign of the love that would follow. When Jerry proposed to Diane while she was recovering from surgery, her delayed response was later encouraged by her pastor: “Follow your heart.” Two months later, on September 15, 1996, they exchanged vows  before God, family and friends at Packanack Community Church in Wayne and celebrated their union with a reception at the Brownstone in Paterson. Their honeymoon in New England was cut short by a Nor’easter, but their marriage was a storm-proof bond lasting 28 wonderful years.

Outside of work and family, Jerry enjoyed bowling in a Sunday league at T-Bowl in Wayne and never missed a chance to cheer for his beloved Giants, through wins and losses. A passionate NASCAR fan, he took pride whenever he wore his Dale Earnhardt autographed jacket.

Nothing, however, surpassed Jerry’s devotion to his family. After retiring, he launched “Grandpa’s Babysitting Service,” a free-of-charge enterprise dedicated to his grandchildren. He had a special bond with his grandson Brandon but poured his love equally into all his grandchildren. Whether following them on Halloween in a scary mask or indulging in their every request, Jerry was always present and never said “no.”

Known for his humor and antics, Jerry once wore a headband with his name on it to help his mother-in-law remember it and was famous for keeping family and friends laughing with his warmth and lighthearted approach to life. Forever in our hearts, Jerry’s unforgettable spirit, humor, and devotion to his loved ones will be missed but never forgotten.

Jerry was the beloved husband of Diane Colyer-Buonomo; loving father of: Courtnay Buonomo and husband Jason, Dana Salazar and husband Luis, Stacey Maimone and husband Joseph, and Trisha Colyer; and adoring grandfather of: Tyler, Brandon, Monica, Matthew, Michael, and Joey. Jerry was predeceased by his parents Gerard and Asunta (Minieri) Buonomo, and his sister Carmel Buonomo.

Because of his great love for America, in lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Jerry’s name are asked to consider one of the following charitable organizations:

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

2361 Hylan Boulevard

Staten Island, NY 10306

To download a printable donation form, Click Here

Wounded Warrior Project

P.O. Box 758516

Topeka, Kansas

66675-8516

To download a printable donation form, Click Here