Jerauld “Jerry” Muoio, 76, of Sanborn, NY, passed away on October 23, 2025 at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Dominic and Mary “Marie” (Critelli) Muoio.
Affectionately known as “Big Jer,” Jerry was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School and went on to earn an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts from Niagara County Community College, pursuing his lifelong passion for cooking. On November 3, 1973, he married the love of his life, Marie E. (Dimond) Muoio, at Bacon Memorial Church in Niagara Falls, NY.
Jerry was employed as a Laborer with Local 91 for over 10 years before beginning a long career as an operator with the Niagara Falls Water Board, where he worked for more than 30 years until his retirement in 2011. Alongside his career, Jerry’s true joy was found in the kitchen. He worked as a Sous Chef at the Niagara Falls Country Club and at the Seneca Niagara Casino Buffet, where he shared his culinary skills, mentored others, and expressed his creativity through food.
A diehard New York Yankees fan, Jerry never missed a chance to cheer on his team, and he also loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing hockey, baseball, fastpitch softball, golfing, and bowling. Known as “Papa” to his grandchildren and friends, Jerry found his greatest happiness in his family. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports, just as he had once coached his own children when they were young. He also enjoyed smooth jazz and the companionship of his beloved cat, Frank.
Jerry will be remembered as the biggest voice in the room, a man who never met a stranger, and someone who knew everyone. His love of conversation, his generous heart, and his unforgettable bear hugs will be cherished by all who knew him.
In addition to his beloved wife of 51 years, Jerry is survived by his children, Marc (Melissa) Muoio and Marci (Ron) Walke; his cherished grandchildren, Emilee and Tyler Muoio and Emma and Avery Walke; one sister; one niece and one nephew; his brother-in-law, Michael Dimond; as well as several cousins and countless friends.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, from 4 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where closing prayers will be offered at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, www.roswellpark.org/giving, or to a local animal rescue organization of one’s choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Courtesy of Recent Obituaries for M. J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel
