Obituary of Richard James Geri

Richard James Geri passed away Monday, January 26, in the arms of his wife and with his childred by his side, at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia. He was 77. Richard was born September 14, 1931 to the late James and Elizabeth (Mallinger) Geri. He was a lifelong Vineland Resident and a third-generation farmer. A 1949 graduate of Vineland Hight School, Richard was the owner, along with his late brother David, of R&D Geri Farms. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 46 years, Norma (Harbart) Geri. They were married on November 17, 1962 at Our Lady of Pompeii Church. Also surviving are a daughter, Loretta Crisp and husband Brad of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; a son, Anthony Richard Geri and wife Martha (Cassidy) of Alloway Township; a grandson, Michael P. Mahoney, Jr. of Texarkana, TX; sisters-in-law Myra (Tonetta) Geri of Vineland, and Betty (Harbart) Tefft and husband William of Johnstown, Pennsylvania; a brother-in-law, William Harbart of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and several nieces and nephews. Richard was an insatiable reader and enjoyed studying and discussing news, politics and history. Over the years he collected many Native American artifacts on his family's East Vineland farm, his most favorite being a tomahawk head. In his younger years he enjoyed flying, and earned his private pilot's license in the 1970s. He also liked playing cards and having lively discussions with friends, and he especially cherished visiting his daughter in Florida and spending time with his grandson, Michael. He was a member of the New Italy American Society and the Vineland Produce Auction, and a past member of the City of Vineland Zoning Board. Besides his parents and brother, David, Richard was predeceased by two infant children. Richard will be deeply missed by all who loved him. "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, and I have kept the faith," 2 Timothy 4:7.