Gerald Marshall Bernstein

Gerald Marshall Bernstein, 86, of Chapel Hill, NC

Gerald M. Bernstein ('Gerry'), 86, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina. Born on March 30, 1939, in New York City, Gerry lived a full life shaped by service, charity, and a deep love for food, fashion, language, and sports.

A graduate of New York University (Class of 1962), Gerry went on to serve his country as an aircraft maintenance officer in the U.S. Air Force from 1963 to 1967. His military service took him to Da Nang, Vietnam, and Okinawa, Japan, during the Vietnam Warexperiences he carried with quiet dignity and a strong sense of duty.

Following his military service, Gerry worked in various industries, including real estate and retail, before spending the last decade-plus of his working life in reinsurance. In 1996, Gerry and his beloved wife Julie relocated from New York to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where he remained for the rest of his life. Julie preceded him in death in 2006.

Gerry had a deep appreciation for the English language, which he expressed by doing the NY Times crossword puzzle nearly every day. He also had an impeccable eye for mens fashion. Whether dressed for a casual outing or a formal occasion, Gerry took pride in presenting himself with classic style and thoughtful detail.

Gerry embraced his adopted home state with enthusiasm, becoming a devoted fan and season ticket holder of the Carolina Panthers. He was also a passionate supporter of the UNC Tar Heels, and remained loyal to his longtime teams: the New York Mets and Knicks. Gerry found joy in cooking and sharing meals, especially desserts, with those he loved.

He is survived by his two sons, Marc, 55, and Gary, 52 and three grandchildren: Nate, 14, Asher, 13, and Jordan, 13.

In lieu of flowers (and memorial trees), donations may be made in Gerrys memory to the ACLU or MoveOn.org, causes he believed in deeply.

A private memorial will be held by the family.


Services

Family to Hold Private Service