Thursday, Jun 1, 2017
Jurist worked at Rider for more than 30 years
Professor Emeritus of Education Rodney Gilbert Jurist passed away on May 13, 2017, surrounded by family. He was 82.
Jurist began at Rider in 1966 and served in various roles, including professor, department chair, assistant dean and director of student teaching, until his retirement in 2000. He received the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, which recognizes faculty teaching excellence at Rider, in 1984.
Jurist earned a bachelor鈥檚 from Duquesne University, a master鈥檚 from Rider College and a doctorate from Rutgers University. He served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Armed Forces (Army) with an honorable discharge in 1965. He began his career as a teacher in New Jersey at Dunellen High School and Randolph High School. Later, he served as president of the National Association for Business Teacher Education (NABTE).
Jurist鈥檚 official obituary describes him as 鈥渏oyful, compassionate, selfless, always putting others first. He always had a smile on his face, wonderful sense of humor, loved music and could really tell a story. He strived daily to be a better version of himself. In doing so, encouraged others around him to do the same. He provided, not only to his family, but to others, words of encouragement. He always knew exactly what to say when people needed it most and endeavored to bring out the best in them, even when they couldn鈥檛 see it themselves.鈥
Jurist is survived by his wife, JoAnn Jurist, whom he met 68 years ago while in 8th grade; his sons, Bradley Joseph (Candice) Jurist, Mark Andrew (Tammy) Jurist, David Michael (Shelly) Jurist, his daughter, Renee Marie (Jeff) Boettcher; his eight grandchildren; and his sister, Jacquelyn Smith.
No services were scheduled. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made at to and online condolences may be shared at .