Dr. Jerome “Jerry” Goodkin, 94, passed away Monday, December 11, 2023, at his home in New Jersey with his family by his side. Jerry grew up in the Bronx, graduating from Evander Childs High School and attending New York University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute before accepting a job in research. Jerry worked on the development of batteries for a variety of uses, including military, and held numerous patents. To be able to spend more time with his family, he began teaching chemistry at Trenton State College, remaining a member of the chemistry and computer science faculties until his retirement in 1997. Jerry was a proud union member and officer, standing strong for his colleagues and for freedom in education.
In retirement, Jerry loved to travel. He and his life-long love and companion Vera Goodkin toured several continents and explored the United States, as well. Jerry was an enthusiastic photographer who specialized in flowers growing in their natural habitats. Jerry stayed current with the world of Chemistry as an avid reader about developments in the field. He lent his time to co-chairing several of the Middle Atlantic Regional Meetings of the American Chemical Society in the early 2000s.
Most of all, Jerry loved his family. His home was a haven for his daughters and their families. He was a beloved grandpa who played everything from sports to dolls with his grandchildren. Unendingly modest despite his accomplishments, Jerry cheered the achievements of others. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and dignity.
Son of the late Nathan and Augusta Goodkin, Jerry is predeceased by his wife of 71 years, Vera Herman Goodkin, and survived by his children Kathleen (Howard) Hirsch and Deborah Goodkin, his grandchildren William Hirsch and Jacob and Margaret Goldman, as well as his sister, Dorothy Chanin, nephews Douglas and Kenneth Chanin, friends and colleagues.
Funeral services and burial are 2 pm on Friday, December 15th at Congregation Brothers of Israel Cemetery, 1100 Cedar Lane in Hamilton. Friends are invited back to Jerry’s home in Lawrenceville after the ceremony. Shiva minyan and visiting will be held from 5:30-7:30 on Saturday and Sunday, December 16th and 17th.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Education Fund at the Princeton Jewish Center, 435 Nassau Street (thejewishcenter.org/donation/)
I’m sorry we couldn’t be with the rest of our family today. Jerry was the greatest father-in-law to me and greatest grandpa to William, and I can’t even begin to describe how much we’re going to miss him and Grandma Vera.
Dear Goodkin Family,
This reminds me of last year when both my parents passed in a matter of forty nine days, at Greenwood House. Your loved one, was the husband of my teacher and autographer of her book to me. Those books I gave to three cherished young Jewish women to read. To get a perspective of what my teacher endured. Whether they are grateful, I know one is, the other two, still reading. His suffering of what happened to his beloved spouse in the concentration camp and her mother, my customer is over. New Life in the new Jerusalem O’ Israel has begun. May God Bless You All.
Sincerely,
MCCC English student EG101
Pete Lieggi
I am so sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing. He was an integral element of the TCNJ Chemistry Department, both as a faculty member and as a benefactor for years following his retirement. The Dr Jerry Goodkin Scholarship Award was coveted by physical chemistry students and I enjoyed my interactions with Jerry at each Department Graduation when he personally came to hand out this award. He was committed to our students and the field and left a lasting legacy. Please accept my condolences.
Mirela Manea-Krichten PhD
Retired TCNJ Chemistry Department