VIRGINIA BEACH —It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, friend and mentor, Gerald (Jerry) Frank Levy. Jerry passed unexpectedly Sunday, August 12, in Norfolk, surrounded by family. He was 80.
Jerry was born in Paterson New Jersey in 1938 to parents Oscar and Isabella Levy. After attaining his doctorate at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, he moved to Virginia with his wife, Paula and young family. Jerry was an active member of the community, serving many roles: Eagle Scout, college professor, temple president, Mason, scout leader, friend, son, brother, father, and husband. Of these, he was most passionate about his marriage to Paula. Married for 58 years, Jerry and Paula shared a continuing love for each other that was obvious to everyone who spent time with them.
During his university years, Jerry could often be found in the Great Dismal Swamp, where he hiked, camped, and canoed with friends, family, and students. He knew the scientific name of every plant and found happiness sharing that knowledge with others. Jerry took profound joy in his leadership at Congregation Beth Chaverim, started by Jerry, Paula, and seven other families in 1982. Jerry was the congregation’s first president.
Jerry is predeceased by his daughter Linda Flick and is survived by his wife Paula Levy, children David, Debbie, and Karen; grandchildren Steven, Aaron, Emily, Hayley, Isa, Amber, Gregory, Jesica and Josh; great granddaughters Riley and Joleigh-ann; sister Lois; and best friend Roger. A graveside service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Donations to the Jerry Levy Beth Chaverim Future Fund, Congregation Beth Chaverim, PO Box 56168, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.