Jerry Nesbitt

Jerry Nesbitt passed away peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2026, with loving family by his side. One of three sons, he was born in 1938 to John and Gladys Nesbitt and raised in Kenilworth, New Jersey. A baptized Protestant, he attended the nearby Kenilworth Gospel Chapel, enjoying worship services and many youth activities there. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served.

He married the love of his life, Joan, who also hails from the same close knit community. The pair first resided in Kenilworth and eventually moved to Bridgewater, where they have lived for nearly fifty years. The couple opened and operated a successful food business in Linden, New Jersey.

Jerry took a tremendous interest in the welfare of others. He had a rare quality of noticing when a person was in need and would act decisively to lend a helping hand.

He had an adventurous spirit, enjoyed the outdoors, and observing nature; he especially loved dogs. He would recall stories involving the beagle hounds he grew up with, as well as the beloved dogs he had throughout his life.

A natural athlete, he enjoyed all manner of sports but was especially devoted to refining his golf game. His interest in golf began as a young boy, caddying at Galloping Hills Golf Course and later grew into a lifelong passion. Always one to inspire others to pick up their clubs, his wife also learned to play golf, and the pair traveled often, enjoying many beautiful courses throughout New Jersey and the East coast.

He deeply cherished his family and was proud of each and every one of them, whether near or far. Jerry is survived by his loving family: wife, Joan; three children, Robert (wife Cheryl), Victoria, and Kimberly; three grandchildren, Brittany, Nicole, Rachel; an elder brother, Jack (wife Barbara) and many treasured nephews, nieces, and cousins. He is predeceased by his younger brother Jimmy.

Private funeral arrangements are under the care of Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 E. Main Street, Bridgewater, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to a local animal shelter, firehouse and rescue, or the Bridgewater PBA 174.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry Nesbitt, please visit our floral store.