Jesse Pagonis

Jesse Pagonis, 90, of Florham Park, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2023.

Jesse was born in the Bronx on 10/22/1932. He received a BA degree from New York University and received his JD from Brooklyn Law School. He loved learning and held a property casualty, life and health license, a CPCU designation and Associate in Risk Management. He started his career as a claims attorney for Travelers and Nabisco. He was Director of Risk Management at Otis Elevator, Foster Wheeler and Engelhard Corporation.

He travelled all over the world with his wife Irene and was an avid reader. He loved teaching and public speaking. He taught CPCU courses and was President of the NY RIMS chapter.  He was an amazing storyteller and was proud of his Greek heritage. He also served in the army.

Beloved husband of 67 years to Irene Pagonis.  Devoted father of Karen Pagonis, Cynthia Delane, Suzanne Pagonis, Denise Pepe and her husband Albert.  Cherished grandfather of Frank Christian, Timothy and Alexandra, Kristina and Nicholas.  Loving uncle of Cathy Shaw, her husband Kevin, and their children Paul and Nicolette.

Jesse was pre-deceased by his parents George and Coralea Pagonis, his sister Thea Vardakis, his niece Elena Vardakis and his son in law Frank Delane.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Wednesday from 4-7pm.  Funeral on Thursday, assembling at the funeral home at 9am, followed by the funeral service at Ss. Nicholas, Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Roseland at 10am.  Interment at Hillside Cemetery in Lyndhurst. 

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