GTJ REIT (GTJ), a public non-traded real estate investment trust based in West Hempstead, NY, announced that Jerome Cooper, Chairman Emeritus and former President and CEO of the Company, died on May 20, 2015 after a long illness.
Paul Cooper, Chairman and CEO of GTJ commented, “It is with great sadness that we announce today the passing of my father Jerry. I say with the heaviest of hearts that we will all miss him greatly.
“From early on his career, Jerry embodied a spirit of optimism and collaboration and served as a mentor to so many during his life. He was known for his candor, his wit and his tenacious business acumen that guided the transformation of a bus company into a successful real estate investment trust.”
Paul Cooper added, “He knew every shareholder and truly cared about each and every one. His personal touch, sharp mind, and endless charm will inspire and stay with us always.”
Mr. Cooper served as chairman of the Board, president and chief executive officer of GTJ and its subsidiaries from its inception in 2006 through May 2012.
Before that, Mr. Cooper served as chief executive officer of Green, Triboro and Jamaica Bus Lines, created through the acquisitions of private bus companies and their routes.
When New York City acquired the routes of these private bus operators, the MTA assumed the operations in 2005, and GTJ was formed.
Mr. Cooper received a Bachelor’s degree in political science from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Laws degree from Fordham Law School.
He is survived by his wife, Iylene and their three children, Karen, Paul and Jonathan.
