The community is mourning the sudden passing of Supreme Court Justice Hon. Jerry Garguilo. He was serving as Presiding Justice of the Appellate Term for the 9th and 10th Judicial Districts, while also managing a full caseload in the Commercial Division of Suffolk’s Supreme Court.
“This is an immeasurable loss,” said Suffolk County District Administrative Judge Andrew A. Crecca. “Justice Garguilo will be remembered for his brilliance, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. His presence enriched the courts and the lives of all who knew him.”
Over his 16 years on the bench, Justice Garguilo, 74, presided over countless trials and authored influential opinions. Most notably, he was assigned to New York’s landmark Coordinated Opioid Litigation, overseeing 40 defendants in a case that produced $1.7 billion in settlements across the state’s 62 counties. He also served as Suffolk’s designated presiding judge for all asbestos-related litigation.
Born in Brooklyn, Judge Garguilo earned degrees from St. Francis College (PA) and Duquesne University School of Law. He began his career as a law clerk to Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Louis Mandarino before returning to Suffolk as an Assistant District Attorney in 1977. In private practice for more than three decades, he gained recognition for his skill, integrity, and empathy before his election to the bench.
Beyond the courtroom, Justice Garguilo was a mentor and educator, lecturing widely before judges, attorneys, students, and community groups. He was also an active member of the Suffolk County Bar Association.
A resident of St. James, he is survived by his wife of 52 years, Angela, three daughters, sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. Calling hours were held at the St. James Funeral Home, with a mass at Saints Philip & James R.C. Church.