Obituary of Gerald Hunt
Gerald Hunt, 79, of Piscataway, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
Born and raised in Staten Island, NY, Gerald was the son of Francis and Dorothy Hunt. A longtime resident of Todt Hill, he was well-known in his youth as a talented baseball and basketball player. His reputation extended beyond the field, as he remained a familiar and respected figure in the community throughout his life.
Following his high school graduation, Gerald answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He initially served along the Korean border but strongly desired to contribute to the Vietnam War effort. However, since his brother Robert was already deployed in Vietnam, the military would not send Gerald to the war zone. Determined to serve alongside his fellow soldiers, he wrote a letter to President Lyndon B. Johnson personally requesting deployment—a request that was ultimately granted. This letter is now preserved in the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. During his three years of service, Gerald earned multiple commendations, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Distinguished Service Cross, and Army Commendation Medal. He was honorably discharged after his dedicated service to his country.
In 1970, Gerald married the love of his life, Kathleen Lane. The couple spent 25 years in Staten Island, where they raised their two sons. In 1995, they moved to Piscataway, NJ, where they have lived for the past 30 years. Gerald was well known in his neighborhood for his daily walks with his beloved dogs over the years.
After his military service, Gerald continued his service to the public by joining the New York City Police Department. He served as an officer in both Manhattan and Staten Island, earning multiple commendations for his heroic actions and dedication to duty. After 20 years of service, Gerald retired from the NYPD due to medical reasons, but his contributions to law enforcement were still deeply appreciated by his colleagues and the community.
Above all, Gerald was a devoted family man. Whether it was choosing to stay home to raise his youngest son after retiring from the NYPD or cherishing time with his grandchildren, his greatest joy was being surrounded by his loved ones.
Gerald was predeceased by his parents, his brother Robert, and his great-grandson Colton. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Kathleen (Lane) Hunt; his sons Chris and Colin; daughters-in-law Charlotte and Nicole; his cherished grandchildren Katelyn, Danielle; Jennifer, Steven, Ellie, and Ethan. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Sebastian and August, his brother Kevin, and many extended family members and dear friends.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 12 PM to 4 PM at Piscataway Funeral Home, 18 Stelton Road, Piscataway, NJ.
A funeral Mass will take place on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Fatima RC Church, 501 New Market Road, Piscataway, NJ, with Military Honors to follow. Family and friends are invited to gather at the funeral home at 9:30 AM before the service.
Cremation services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the Hunt family kindly requests that donations be made in Gerald’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital