Gerardo ‘Jerry’ Magnotta
Obituary Reports the death of an individual, providing an account of the person’s life including their achievements, any controversies in which they were involved, and reminiscences by people who knew them.
Rocco Gerardo Antonio Magnotta, “Gerardo” in Italy and “Jerry” in America, passed away peacefully at home with family on Nov. 5. He was 96.
Jerry was a master barber with an 81-year career. He was the town barber of Andretta, Italy, his hometown. He also worked on an allied airbase near the end of World War II, in Rome, and throughout New York after immigrating to America in 1966. Jerry had an unparalleled number of apprentices, including brothers and sons. Nearly 200,000 people sat in his chair.
Jerry’s longevity is due to how he viewed barbering as a tether to interaction, and in later years, to family when he traveled to his last shop, the Pleasantville Barber Shop, with his oldest son. It can also be attributed to his strength of will and social nature, and perhaps, a true Mediterranean diet. (Sometimes in abundance! But true nonetheless.)
Prime among Jerry’s many endearing qualities was his full, unguarded heart. He extended his love to Vicky, his beloved wife of 46 years, progeny, siblings, the Barbering Guild and the paisanos, friends and extended family he interacted with. He will be sorely missed, but the affection, fun and memories Jerry provided will be forever etched on the hearts of those who cared for him.
Jerry is predeceased by his daughter, Michelina (Lina). He is survived by his wife, Vicky (nee Woods); children Alfonso (Charlotte), Toni (Frank) and Michael (Adrianna) with his former wife, Felicia; son Patrick (Katie) with Vicky; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
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