Gerson Lee Sacks was born in Burgettstown, PA, in 1936 to Isidore Benjamin and Sarah Sacks (Stone), owners of the Sacks Department Store. He grew up known as “Sonny” with his older sister, Ruth (Chusid), who is deceased.

He is survived by his former wife, Barbara (Kichline), the mother of his two sons, Jeffrey (Elizabeth) and Jonathan (Diana). His legacy also includes three grandchildren: Rebekah (11), Shane (10), and Benjamin (8). Additionally, he is survived by his longtime companion, Elinor Parker.

The family of origin moved to Pittsburgh, PA, and Gerson attended Taylor Allderdice High School, where his beautiful baritone voice enriched the Glee Club. He loved watching the Pittsburgh Pirates play baseball while selling hot dogs at Forbes Field.

When the family moved to Miami, FL, Gerson attended the University of Miami and subsequently earned his undergraduate and Doctor of Education degrees. He worked as a school counselor in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools for approximately 30 years and dedicated himself to helping his students lead successful lives. As the Head of Student Services at Miami Douglas MacArthur South Senior High School, he was warmly known as “Doc.” His former students were very aware of how significantly he impacted their lives.

Gerson enjoyed his poker nights with friends, and wherever he lived, poker nights followed. He made award-winning chili, loved garlic, and on many evenings, he could be found sitting in his chair with a good cigar, eating roasted peanuts, and watching a baseball game. He made those around him comfortable with his contagious laugh and warm smile. It would also be an understatement to call him tenacious.

He was a devoted father, grandfather, and life companion who always put his family’s needs before himself. Gerson and Elinor enjoyed a 40-year relationship. He swept into her life with his endearing lightness, humor, and charm. His friends and her friends became their friends. In 1999, they moved to Maitland, FL, where they shared a love of gardening, ballet and opera, fine films, Red Sox games, and a lifestyle that suited them both. They truly were soul mates and very happy together.

He will forever be missed. May his memory be a blessing.

Funeral Services for Mr. Sacks will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel (835 Lee Road, Orlando, FL) with Rabbi Kay officiating. Interment will follow at Palm Cemetery, Winter Park, Florida.

Service entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 933 Lee Road, Suite 101, Orlando, Florida 407-599-1180.