Rev. Gerard J. Graziano "Father Graz" entered eternal rest on October 12, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on September 30, 1935, he grew up in Cliffside Park, New Jersey, the beloved son of the late Patrick and Beatrice (née Dingley) Graziano.

A proud graduate of St. Cecilia's High School, Father Graz was a four-sport varsity athlete, earning letters in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He continued his education at Seton Hall University and Immaculate Conception Seminary, where he discerned his vocation to the priesthood. On May 27, 1961, he was ordained a Roman Catholic priest, a calling that defined his life for more than six decades.

Fittingly, the first wedding he officiated was that of his beloved brother and sister-in-law, Ronald and Jeanne (née Thone) Graziano. He is predeceased by his parents and by his brother Ronald. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Jeanne Magri and his devoted nephew and nieces and their spouses: Michael and Reina Graziano, Janice and Michael O'Neill, Diane and John Bednarz, and Suzanne and Michael Roche. He was the cherished "Uncle Gerry" to 15 grand-nieces and nephews, and 1 great-grand niece and 2 great-grand nephews, all of whom were blessed by his love, humor, and guidance.

Throughout his 64 years of priestly service, Father Graz faithfully ministered in numerous parishes across northern New Jersey. His assignments included Our Lady of Assumption in Bayonne, Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Newark, St. Anthony's in Union City, Our Lady of the Visitation in Paramus, St. Anthony's in Northvale, and Immaculate Conception in Hackensack. After retiring, he lived at St. Matthew's Church in Ridgefield, where he continued to serve the parish community and remained a beloved spiritual presence.

Father Graz lived a life of deep generosity and unwavering faith. He embodied the message of Jesus that he so often preached: "Love one another as I have loved you." He was known for speaking truth to power, fearlessly and compassionately, and for ministering to those most in need. Over the years, he baptized, gave First Communion to, and married many members of his extended family, blessing generations with his presence and faith.

Father Graz was also known for his warmth, wit, and love of life. He treasured time with his many friends and family and could often be found enjoying a day at the racetrack. One of his proudest and most joyful honors was having a racehorse named after him, "Padre Graz." He was also a loyal Jets and Mets fan, suffering through many seasons of woe and disappointment. He prayed a lot.

In his later years, he was a beloved resident of Emerson Health and Rehabilitation Center, where he was visited often by family, friends, and parishioners. Even there, his ministry continued, as he frequently administered the sacraments to residents, including celebrating Easter Mass, hearing confessions, distributing ashes on Ash Wednesday, and administering the Sacrament of the Sick. Father Graz was deeply grateful to all who visited and spent time with him, and his family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Emerson for their kindness and care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to St. John's Soup Kitchen in Newark, continuing his lifelong commitment to helping those in need.

Visitation will be held Monday, Oct. 20 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm with a vigil prayer service at 7 pm, at St. Matthew's R.C. Church, 555 Prospect Avenue, Ridgefield, NJ. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 11:00 am, also at St. Matthew's R.C. Church, Ridgefield, NJ. Burial will follow at George Washington Memorial Park Cemetery, Paramus.

Arrangements conducted by G. Thomas Gentile Funeral Service, Hackensack. To send condolences, directions, or for further information please visit www.gentilefuneralservice.com