Jerry Bifulco, lifelong member of the produce industry, was 64
Jerry Bifulco, lifelong member of the produce industry, was 64
Gennaro (Jerry) George Bifulco, 64, died at home on April 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous two-year battle with Glioblastoma.
Mr. Bifulco was born in Staten Island, NY, where he developed a love of farming at an early age. His passion moved with him to Pittsgrove, NJ, in 1970, where he continued the family tradition as a proud third-generation farmer. Hardworking and patient, Mr. Bifulco took great pride in his work and in preserving the legacy passed down through generations.
Before graduating from Arthur P. Schalick High School in 1979, Mr. Bifulco simultaneously attended Salem County Vocational Technical School and obtained his certification in welding. He was a board member of the Glassboro Labor Association, as well as an active member of the Vineland Produce Auction.
With their father's encouragement and a shared passion for the fruit and produce industry, Mr. Bifulco and his two brothers, Bert and Mickey, co-founded U. Bifulco & Sons Farms Inc., Bifulco Farms Inc., UGM Transport Inc. and Bifulco's Four Seasons Cold Storage Inc.
Mr. Bifulco was an exceptional farmer who took immense pride in his work. He carefully restored, repainted and repurposed each tractor and piece of machinery, taking great care of them and valuing their role in his trade. Having learned the ways of the land from his father, he knew just when to plant each crop to ensure the perfect time for harvest.
In 1985, he married the love of his life, Theresa (Sparacio) Bifulco, and together they shared 41 years of marriage filled with love, partnership and devotion. They did everything side by side, building a life centered on faith and family.
Mr. Bifulco was a member of St. Isidore's Church in Vineland, NJ, for 18 years before later becoming a member of the Parish of the Holy Cross in Bridgeton, NJ, where he remained until his death. He was a proud supporter of St. Mary School in East Vineland, where all his children and grandchildren were educated and continue to attend.
Mr. Bifulco had a deep love for family traditions, making seeds and canning tomatoes, which he proudly passed down to his family. His generosity was felt by all, especially during the holidays, when he continued his father's tradition of taking trips to Brooklyn, NY, to bring back pastries for family and friends.
As a young father, he inspired his children to realize the importance of doing their best. He encouraged his daughter, Lisa, to follow her dreams and pursue her ambitions. As for his sons, Gennaro II and Umberto Joseph, he wanted them to use their drive and determination to continue the family legacy.
He was predeceased by his father, Umberto Bifulco Jr.; his parents-in-law, Joseph and Anna Sparacio; his sister-in-law, Patricia Spoltore; and his brother-in-law, Gary Catalano.
Mr. Bifulco is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa (Sparacio) Bifulco; his children, Lisa (Christopher) Venturi, Gennaro II (Megan) Bifulco and Umberto Joseph Bifulco; and his cherished grandchildren, Gemma and Christopher II Venturi, and Gennaro III, Charlotte and Patrick Bifulco.
He is also survived by his mother, Charlotte Rose Bifulco; his brothers, Umberto (Bert) III (Kathleen) Bifulco and Michael (Mickey) (Jennifer) Bifulco; his sisters-in-law, Joann Catalano and Marie (Roderick) MacDonald; brother-in-law, Roy Spoltore; a beloved cousin, Umberto (Cuz) Bifulco, along with many loving nieces and nephews.
Mr. Bifulco's legacy of love, hard work, generosity and devotion to family traditions will live on in all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory may do so with a contribution to these organizations and charities: St. Mary Regional School, 735 Union Road, Vineland, NJ; The Good Shepherd Dining Room (at St. Teresa of Avila Church), c/o The Parish of the Holy Cross, 46 Central Avenue, Bridgeton, NJ 08302.
