Gary Reiss
1946 – 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Ira Reiss, 79, who died peacefully on December 5, 2025.
Gary was born on May 8, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York to Philip and Ida Reiss, and was the cherished younger brother of his beloved sister and best friend, Barbara.
In 1950, Gary’s family relocated to Yardville, New Jersey, to expand their family business, then known as Reiss Merchandise Co. What began as a small enterprise grew into what many now know as Suit World — a trusted pillar of the Trenton community. To Gary, the business was far more than work; it was his passion, his purpose, and the driving force that energized him throughout his life.
Gary was a proud graduate of Hamilton High School West in 1964 and later attended Rider University. After college, he joined the family business, which at the time specialized in women’s and girls’ apparel. With a sharp eye for opportunity, Gary convinced his parents to pivot toward men’s and boys’ apparel in 1969 and opened Reiss Men’s Shop — a decision that endured the next six decades. In 1982, he opened a second location, The Rouge Shop, on North Broad Street.
Gary was a lifelong advocate for the City of Trenton. His warmth, approachability and genuine connection with others in the community earned him deep respect, and during the 1971 riots, his shop was the only local business spared in the violent raids. He served as a volunteer for the Trenton Downtown Association and as treasurer of the New Jersey Retail Merchants Association, and for many years supported the Trenton Police Department, helping fund the city’s first bicycle patrol program.
Gary remained in business in downtown Trenton until 2017, and was eventually joined by his eldest son Adam. He went on to open a third location, Suit World, which earned him the New Jersey Retail Association Small Business of the Year.
Gary was a titan in men’s clothing, outfitting generations of Mercer and Bucks County boys and men for life’s most meaningful moments. He will be remembered by customers, his employees, and the Trenton community as one of its great champions.
In 2001, Gary and his wife, Judi, suffered life’s greatest tragedy—with the loss of their son, Joshua Reiss, on 9/11. In the midst of unimaginable grief, Gary remained an unwavering partner to Judi and a steady, trusted father. His children knew they could always call him—for advice, support, or simply to hear his voice. Through his strength, he showed them that even after profound loss, life continues, and joy can still be found.
In the late 90s, Gary hired then 15-year-old, Luis Gomez. Their working relationship quickly grew into something deeper. Gary became a mentor and father figure, and Luis became like a son.
In his younger years, Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, and managing the JCC basketball leagues during the 1970s and ’80s. He loved dogs, beautiful cars, and was known by many for his famous license plate, “4 BOYS.”
Gary was a true friend, a trusted confidant, and above all, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family was the joy of his life.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barbara; and his beloved son, Joshua.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Judi; his sons, Adam (Rachel), Jordan (Lisa), and Jonathan (Kellen); his daughter, Jennifer (Mathew); and his eight cherished grandchildren: Addison, Amelia, Vivian, Colette, Faye, Jackson, Hannah, and Jocelyn.
He will also be deeply missed by his beloved cousins Nancy, Eric, Lori, and Ira, their families as well as his brother in law Gary (Jean) and his nephews Isadore and Aaron.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that any donations be made to the Garden of Reflection 9/11 memorial in Yardley, www.9-11memorialgarden.org.
The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, December 7th, at Ewing Cemetery, 78 Scotch Road, Ewing, NJ.
Shiva will be observed at the Reiss Home from Sunday-Thursday. Times and address will be shared separately.
Funeral arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. OrlandsMemorialChapel.com/Gary-Reiss
Please accept our deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband and father Gary. May he remain in your hearts forever. Jenn, we are so very sorry. It was pretty special knowing that he was able to meet your two precious little girls. ❤️
Thinking about all of you as you grieve the loss of an incredible man. His love will live on in all of you. – Robin, Justin, Josie and Isaac
So very sorry to hear of his passing.We did business together and when we stopped laughing we got down to work.My deepest sympathies to Judi and their family.May he RIP
I was saddened to read that Gary had passed. Please accept my condolences to the entire family.
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sharon and Barry Shafer
My family, and my son’s, are saddened by this loss. Gary was great father and community man. Gary and Judi were pillars of a wonderful family. A few years ago I was at the Reiss home. The family was lively and loving on a very normal evening. I was very pleased to see/be part the this vibrant family group. My heart goes out to Judi, Jennifer and the boys during this difficult time of loss. Gary will be dearly missed by the family and many. Many friends in the community.
Our heartfelt condolences to Judi and the children of this most wonderful couple in the The Greater and lower Bucs Community. We always admired them because of their courage and ability to trudge along even with the burden of their great loss on 9/11. We sat every night with them thru the Shiva period when they lost Josh and their strength was admirable.
Rest in peace old friend and may your memory be for a blessing.
Stephanie, Marvin, Scott, Joshua and family.