Gerald M. Maier

Gerald Maier, of Philadelphia, PA, and Avalon, NJ, passed away on March 20, 2026. He was 85.

Born on September 16, 1940, in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, Gerald was the son of Cecilia (née Gallagher) and Julius Maier. He spent his childhood at St. Matthew's Parish where he formed lasting friendships, and was a proud graduate of Father Judge High School, LaSalle College, and the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where he earned his Master of Public Administration. He maintained close ties with many of his classmates throughout his life.

On September 10, 1966, he married Mary (née Heron), and together for nearly 60 years they built a life centered on family. They raised their six children in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia, where Gerald was a steady and devoted presence as a husband and father. During his children's early years, he coached basketball for the Roxborough Eagles, where many neighborhood kids came to know him as both a coach and a friend. He often referred to his family as "The Winning Team," a reflection of both his love of sports and the pride he took in those closest to him.

Gerald dedicated his professional life to public service, spending nearly 50 years in real estate and economic development. His career included roles with the Redevelopment Authority of Philadelphia, Market Street East Development Corporation, PIDC, and Asbel Associates, and concluded with 25 years directing and managing real estate for SEPTA. He was especially proud to have ridden the first train into Market East under the Gallery.

Over the last 30 years, his most cherished role was that of "Poppy." He took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren, watching their sporting events, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing stories of their successes with anyone who would listen. Many of his favorite moments were spent at the family's shore home in Avalon, where he enjoyed simply watching his family come and go, surrounded by the energy and connection he valued most. He also found joy in life's simple traditions, watching classic movies and making sure others watched them too, talking sports, following basketball closely, and filling out his brackets each year.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Dorothy.

Gerald is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his children, Tim (Jean Maier), Gerald (Lorri Fencer), Mary Chris Sehn, Michael (Maria Gallagher), Maureen (Joanna Maier), and Dan; his cherished grandchildren, Madison, Sean, Ryan, and Colin Sehn; Maria Fencer; Tessa and Ally Maier; and Liam and Hazel Maier; and his siblings, Julius Maier (Dorothy) and Phyllis Bickley. He was also a beloved uncle and brother-in-law to many.

He wore many hats in life, dad, husband, poppy, coach, boss, friend, brother, and uncle, and carried each role with dedication, pride, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Roxborough on Thursday, March 26th. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, with Mass to follow at 11:00 AM. Interment in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

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