Jerry G. Sokaris

December 14, 1933 - April 1, 2021

Tebbutt Funeral Home Wynantskill- Jerry G. Sokaris passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Thursday, April 1, in the Comfort Care Unit at The Teresian House in Albany. Born in Albany on December 14, 1933, to Gregory and Antigone Sokaris. He attended Albany Public schools and graduated from Albany High School in 1951. He was an active member of the Doxia debating society, played cello in the school’s orchestra and was on the tennis team. He proudly served in the Army during the Korean War, stationed in Heidelberg, Germany for two years, with the O.S.S. Following his discharge he spent 6 months traveling throughout Europe, staying at youth hostels. He completed his journey in Cephalonia, Greece, where he stayed and got to know his parents’ extended family. This experience left a lasting impression. He attended Siena College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. He began his career at The Albany Felt Company, which is presently the Albany International Corp, working as a project chemist.  During his career, he made major contributions in the area of chemical treatments for paper machine clothing. He carried out the responsibilities associated with OSHA- EPA.  Jerry retired from Albany International in 1999 after 39 years of service as the Corporate Environmental Health and Safety Officer. Jerry kept busy in retirement, taking courses to become a tax preparer, which led him to work for Jackson Hewitt, and also volunteer his services for AARP and VITA. He was a passionate fan of The New York Giants football team as well as Siena College Basketball, where he held season tickets for many years, enjoying the games with his son, Gregory.  He enjoyed traveling with his wife Eleanor, and felt very fortunate that they were able to visit many places over the years. Jerry was the oldest of seven siblings and was predeceased by his parents, his sister Electra, and brothers Nick (Annie), Jim and Alex. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Eleanor, his son Gregory and his daughter, Allison (John Wilson), sister Nora and brother Peter Sokaris. Also sisters- in- law, Mary Sokaris and Elaine Sokaris. In addition he is survived by many beautiful nieces and nephews. Due to the pandemic, all services will be private for immediate family at Saint Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church. A memorial service to honor Jerry’s life for close friends and family will be held at a later date. Donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to Saint Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church. 440 Whitehall Road, Albany, New York 12208. Arrangements entrusted to Tebbutt Funeral Home.