By the Family

May 4, 2016:  Robert J. Giuffra, Sr., of Bronxville and Otis, Massachusetts, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died on April 30, 2016, surrounded by his family and in the loving arms of his wife of 57 years, Dr. Mary J. Giuffra.

Born in Brooklyn on August 28, 1930, Bob was the son of Severino and Teresita Giuffra, immigrants from northern Italy. He was a graduate of St. Augustine's High School, St. John's University School of Law (LLB), and Brooklyn Law School (LLM).

He served overseas in the United States Army during the Korean War. After the war, Bob joined what is now known as Dougherty, Ryan, Giuffra, Zambito & Hession. For many years, he was the firm's senior partner. A leading member of the admiralty, insurance, and products liability bars, he had an extensive trial and appellate practice in federal and state courts.  

He practiced law into his eighth decade. He mentored many young lawyers, including three of his children. He served as a member of the Departmental Disciplinary Committee and Committee on Character and Fitness of the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court, First Judicial Department. 

He also was a member of the board of trustees of The Berkeley Institute.

Bob was most devoted to and proud of his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, a psychotherapist, member of faculty of the New York University School of Nursing, and founder of the nursing program at the College of Mount St. Vincent; four children, Robert Jr. of New York City, Mary Elizabeth of Paris, Lisa of Bronxville, and Thomas of Scarsdale; eight grandchildren, Gabriela, Alessandra, Olivier, Elizabeth, Claire, Caroline, Robert III, and Thomas Jr.; and his sister, Alice Brusati.

The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, May 4, at 10:45 am at The Church of Saint Joseph in Bronxville. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to The Robert J. Giuffra 53L Scholarship at St. John's University School of Law.