Jerry Tarica

Jerry Tarica, 81, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in the Bronx, Jerry was the son of Nissim and Victoria Israel Tarica. Jerry spent many memorable years in California, where he met his soulmate, Paulette. They married in 1971. During that time, he owned a record store, Grandpa Poopy's Plastic Dreams, and worked as a concert promoter, fitting roles for someone whose passion for live music ran deep. A devoted fan of jazz, Jerry found joy in the energy of a good performance and the community it created. His love of music was matched only by his love of people; Jerry was social, always ready for good conversation, good food, and new friends. He had a rare gift for making anyone feel like a friend. After serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970, Jerry used the GI Bill to pursue his many passions, one of which was photography, a craft that became a lifelong creative outlet. His work focused on the beauty of nature and everyday people. In 1988, Jerry and Paulette moved to Middlesex, New Jersey, where they put down roots and raised their family. Jerry was a devoted husband, father and Pop-Pop.

Jerry was predeceased by his wife, Paulette in 2012; his sister Stella Corley and brother Morris Tarica. He is survived by his daughter Cari Tarica and her partner Albert McDowell; his son Gabe Tarica and his wife, Kirsten; his grandchildren Alexander, Booker and Birdie; and sister-in-laws Patti Imbriani, Tina Dugan, and Cindi (David) Romano.

Gathering with the family will be 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Saturday, December 13, 2025, with a memorial service beginning at 3:00 PM followed by military honors, at Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home, 225 Mountain Avenue, Bound Brook, NJ 08805.

Donations in Jerry’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital