Jerome “Jerry” Seckler, 87, of Massapequa, NY, passed away on March 10th, 2025, in Rockville Centre, NY.

Born on December 10, 1937, in Brooklyn, NY, Jerry grew up in Valley Stream, NY and attended Valley Stream Central High School and St. Paul’s Preparatory School in Garden City, Long Island. He continued his education at Penn State University, where he excelled as a student-athlete, and later earned his master’s degree from Columbia University.

Jerry’s passion for sports and community service led him to a distinguished career in coaching and public service.

Jerry began his coaching career at Freeport high school as head varsity wrestling coach before moving on to Columbia University, where he later became President of the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA). In 1990, Jerome became President and Co-founder of The Friends of Long Island Wrestling, who helped grow it into a nationally recognized organization with over 2,000 members dedicated to supporting the amateur wrestling community.

Working for the Town of Hempstead in Parks and Recreation, Jerry eventually became the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation for Nassau County. He later served as the Executive Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs for Nassau County, fostering programs that enriched the community.

Beyond his professional and athletic achievements, Jerry was a man of many passions. He was an avid sailor who turned his love for the sailing into a marine business dedicated to sailing.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Seckler; his children, Frank, Jean, and Michael; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Jerry’s legacy as a loving husband and father, mentor, coach, and community advocate forever be remembered.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in honor of Jerry may be made to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

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