Jeremiah "Jerry" Reubens

Jerry Reubens, a cherished brother, uncle, stepson, and devoted friend, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2026, in West Hurley. Born on February 25, 1971, in Manhattan, Jerry lived a life marked by kindness, community spirit, and a love for games that brought joy to many.

For over 25 years, Jerry found a true home and a second family in the Woodstock community. He was a constant and friendly presence in town, making lasting friends at many local establishments throughout the years. These connections were deeply meaningful to Jerry; he cherished his friends and the time spent sharing stories and smiles with them. Most recently, he became a fixture at the Pearl Moon, where he could be found with his good friend, Scott Mitchell. He was also proud to volunteer with the Woodstock Company 5 Rescue Squad, enjoying the opportunity to give back to the town and neighbors he loved so much.

An accomplished chess player, the game was a consistent and defining part of Jerry's life. In his earlier years, he was a regular at the tables at Washington Square Park’s "Chess Plaza" and a member of the Greenwich Village Chess Club. A talented strategist, he even mentored the chess prodigy who inspired the film Searching for Bobby Fischer. After moving upstate, Jerry remained an avid player, dedicated to teaching the game to others. For the last 13 years, he served as an Assistant Instructor for the Rockin’ Rooks Chess Club.

When he wasn't strategizing over a chessboard, Jerry enjoyed playing poker, backgammon, darts, and computer games. His competitive spirit was matched by his loyalty as an avid fan of the NY Jets Football and NY Yankees Baseball teams. He and his brother, Larry, were often side by side, attending these games together and competing as teammates in a dart league.

Jerry cherished spending time with his sister Allison’s daughters, Lily and Mazie, particularly during fun-filled trips to water parks. He also loved sharing his passion for chess with Lily, whether they were playing a match together or just talking strategy.

Jerry shared an incredibly close bond with his mother, Kathy Platsky, who predeceased him in May 2025. While his sudden passing is a shock to those left behind, there is deep comfort in knowing that they are now together again, and neither has to endure a world without the other.

He is survived by his brother, Larry Mangum; sister, Allison Romano and her husband Dan; stepfather, Michael Platsky; paternal siblings, Paul Reubens Birchall and Joe Reubens; and his adored nieces, Lily and Mazie. Jerry also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will continue to cherish his memory. In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his father, Jack Reubens.

Jerry's presence will be profoundly missed by the Woodstock community, which he embraced as his own. His warmth, generosity, and the joy he found in simple pleasures will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jerry's legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched with his good-hearted nature and the memories he created with those he loved.

 A gentle soul and a steadfast teammate, Jerry played every game with passion, but it was his generous spirit and good heart that truly defined him.

You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence with the family on Jerry's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com  The family was assisted by Mark Wilsey at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home, Main St. Phoenicia. 

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