Jerry Sella

Jerry Sella

July 18, 1941 - May 19, 2024

Long-time Dunellen Resident

Lifetime NY Yankee fan

Gerard E. Sella, affectionately known as Jerry or Pop, peacefully passed away at the age of 82 on Sunday May 19, 2024 at his home in Dunellen, surrounded by family.  

Jerry was born in Bound Brook, NJ, to the late John Sella and Mary (Gavornik) Sella. He moved to Dunellen at the age of 8; graduated from St Peter’s High School in 1959 and Pennsylvania Military College in 1964.  He is predeceased by his brother Edward.  

Throughout his life, Jerry was a man of quiet strength and unwavering character. His career as a payroll manager in the pharmaceutical industry spanned several decades, but it was his family that truly defined his life. A devoted son, father, and “pop,” Jerry's dedication to his community beyond family was unparalleled.

From the little league field behind his house to all three NY Yankees' stadiums he visited through the years, Jerry’s love for baseball was well-known to all.  As a member of the Dunellen Athletic Club (DAC), he coached teams of kids who remember him to this day.  The game brought him countless hours of joy and camaraderie.  His kind-hearted nature, strong moral compass, and steadfast support for his family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and cherished memories.  Together with his wife Jan, their home was and continues to be a place where all who enter as strangers, leave as family.  

He is survived by his wife of 59 years Janet; his children, Michael (Christine), Christopher (Kelly), Scott (Kevin), Stephanie (Roy); daughter-in-law Kelly; grandchildren Emily (Adam), Riley, Jack, Aurora, and Nate; pets Piper and Mango, and many more cherished friends who became family.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 23rd from 4 pm to 8 pm at the funeral home.  A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 24th at 11 am at Saint John the Evangelist Church. Please consider making a donation in his name to the Laura Ruskuski Scholarship Fund through the Dunellen Recreation Department.  (Checks payable to “Dunellen Recreation,” with LR Scholarship for Pop in memo).

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry Sella, please visit our floral store.