Jeri Rasmussen Gorman

Jeri Rasmussen Gorman, of Carneys Point, formerly of Pennsville, passed away at the age of 62 on Sunday, March 18th, in the comfort of her loving family after an extended illness. Jeri was known for her kindness, particularly with animals. She never met a cat she didn’t love, and was exceptionally soft-hearted, giving many stray felines a loving home. Though she was known as the neighborhood “cat whisperer,” she also owned horses and dogs, and provided shelter and food to homeless raccoons and possums during brutal winter nights. Her penchant for “critters” kept birdfeeders full for both flying friends and local squirrels. Jeri was predeceased by her parents, Richard and Mary Rasmussen. She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Mike; the children she raised, Meghan Mallick (Darrin) and Ryan Gorman (Yvonne); grandchildren Harper Gorman, Miles Gorman and Emily Kahawai (Chad); sisters Jan D’Urso (Tony) and Jill Macconi; brother Jon Rasmussen (Sue); nephews Matt (Anita, children Kellan and Mae) and Mike D’Urso; and nieces Dana and Jackie Rasmussen; along with several of her beloved cats and a lone Chihuahua. Always physically active, Jeri was very proud of her time bodybuilding, ultimately taking the trophy in the Lehigh Valley contest in 2004. Recently, she pursued ballroom dancing, perfecting her skills to rapidly become an exemplar. She was a superb pianist, playing just about any tune solely by ear. Jeri loved Mexico, particularly the beaches of Cancun and the Mayan ruins. She treasured her times at the family’s “Ocean Gate Estate,” particularly when the grandchildren visited. Most of all, she treasured being part of Salem County – the people, the local flavor, and the kindness. An alumnae of Penns Grove High School, she was also a graduate of Salem Community College (Associate’s), Glassboro State (Bachelor’s), and Rowan University (Master’s). Jeri taught multiple levels of Spanish for 33 years, and served in various supervisory roles at Woodstown. In addition, she served as advisor to the cheerleaders, the school newspaper (Woodstonian), and the Spanish Club. Her piñata projects were legendary, and her Latin dance fieldtrips highlighted the year for many students and staff. Under her tutelage the newspaper earned multiple awards in graded competitions. The first to arrive each day, she was known for her smile, her enthusiasm, and her positive manner with students and colleagues. Jeri was always the “go to” person of the faculty. The passing of Jeri Rasmussen Gorman – wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, humanitarian – leaves a great void in the lives of family, friends, colleagues, students, and pets. Friends may call on Thursday, March 29th, from 6PM to 8PM and again on Friday, March 30th from 9AM to 10AM in the Davidow Theater of your Salem Community College. A memorial celebration of Jeri’s life will take place at 10AM on Friday, March 30th, also in the Davidow Theater of Salem Community College. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Salem Community College Foundation or the Salem County Humane Society. www.ashcraftfuneralhomes.com

Jeri Rasmussen Gorman

October 29, 1955 - March 18, 2018