Jerry Joseph Dasti

Jerry J. Dasti, Respected Attorney and Devoted Public Servant

Jerry J. Dasti, a distinguished attorney and devoted public servant of Ocean County, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, surrounded by his family, at the age of 76. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Jerry was known for his vast legal expertise, his unwavering commitment to his family and his profound dedication to the communities he served.

Born in Summit, New Jersey, on January 7, 1949, he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Rutgers University in 1970 and a law degree from Rutgers Camden in 1973. Raised in Point Pleasant as the oldest of 5 children, he learned the value of hard work while crewing charter fishing boats during the summer months. He was a member of the first graduating class of St. Joseph's (now Donovan Catholic High School), where he served as Class President.  Jerry spent the majority of his life in Ocean County, where he built a prominent legal practice.  As a Founding Partner at the law firm Dasti, McGuckin, McNichols, Connors, Anthony & Buckley, Jerry was instrumental in guiding governmental entities statewide. His professional expertise was both vast and comprehensive, encompassing many aspects of civil litigation and municipal law. He successfully argued several landmark cases before the New Jersey Supreme Court and was the recipient of the prestigious Fred G. Stickel award for lifetime excellence in the field of Local Government Law, and an award for Exemplary Service to the Legal Profession by the NJ Institute of Local Government Attorneys. Jerry was a proud member of the Republican Party, attending many national conventions as an Honorary Delegate, serving as Finance Chairman for the Ocean County Republican Organization, and serving most recently as the Finance Co-Chairman of Jack Ciattarelli's gubernatorial campaign. He was also a former President of the Lacey Township Chamber of Commerce and served on the St. Joseph’s Endowment Committee.

One of Jerry’s most enduring legacies was his dedication to youth athletics. Jerry coached the Lacey Township Soccer Club for over 20 years, the Lacey Township Basketball Association for over 15 years, and the Lacey Township Little League for over 12 years. His commitment to coaching impacted generations of young athletes, teaching lessons that extended far beyond the field or court.

Jerry was also a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather, whose life revolved around his family.  He led with love, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to those closest to him.  Whether offering support, guidance, or simply listening, Jerry always put family first.  His dependable nature and genuine care made him the heart of every gathering and a constant source of strength to everyone who knew him.  His love for his children and grandchildren knew no limits.

Jerry was predeceased by his father, Jerry Dasti, and his mother Dorothy (née Hosp), as well as his sister-in-law Deborah Dasti.  Jerry will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 28 years, Elizabeth (Liz) Dasti; his five children: Jerry L. Dasti (and his husband Nicholas), Matthew Dasti (and his wife Nitai), Chris Dasti (and his wife Elaine), Alex Dasti (and his wife Hillary), and Joseph Mackolin (and his devoted partner Erblina); seven grandchildren; his brother Bill Dasti, sister Pamela DePasquale (and her husband Joe), brother Charles Dasti (and his wife Susan), and sister Dotty Conaty (and her husband Jack); many beloved nieces and nephews; his partners and colleagues at his law firm; and the countless clients and community members whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 2 to 6 pm at Layton’s Home For Funerals, 250 West Lacey Road, Forked River, NJ.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 11:45 am at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church 685 Hooper Ave, Toms River, NJ.

Jerry believed strongly in the importance of Ocean County College to the community, donating years of service and countless hours to serve as Chairman of the OCC Board of Trustees. The Jerry J. Dasti Scholarship Fund for the Advancement of Students has been established to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Dasti, whose service to his community left a lasting impact on Ocean County and beyond. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the scholarship fund. Contributions will directly support Ocean County College students, helping them pursue their educational goals. Donations can be made in two ways: By mail: Ocean County College, Bursar’s Office, 1 College Drive Toms River, NJ 08754 or by Online: https://booking.grunincenter.org/Donations See link below.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry Joseph Dasti, please visit our floral store.