Robert Eric Powers
Funeral Service: June 1, 2025 1:00 PM
Funeral Home: Gutterman’s Rockville Centre Chapel
175 N. Long Beach Road,
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Notes:
On Thursday, May 29 in the early morning hour, Robert Eric Powers, known as Jay, took his last breath at South Nassau Hospital in the loving arms of his wife Liliann at the age of 72. Born in the Bronx, he moved to Long Beach and lived by the beach for the rest of his life. Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Ellen Powers, and his eldest brother Mark. He is survived by his brother and sister, Kenny and Joni, his wife Liliann, his two children, Jillian and Josh (Avery), and his two grandchildren Spencer Ellen and James Robert.
A scholar and an athlete, Jay put himself through school by working in kitchens and parking cars. He earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from John Jay College and a Juris Doctorate from Fordham University. He spent most of his professional career serving the Bay Shore, Brentwood, Islip, Central Islip, Deer Park, and surrounding communities at the firm he helped build, Zuckerman and Powers. A passionate advocate for hard-working immigrant communities, Jay believed in justice, fairness, and second chances.
Known as “Shmung” to his close family, and Jay to all except the government, he lived a life with integrity, honesty, and heart (even when his failed him). A quiet yet firm man, with a sensitive soul he found his “bashert” and soulmate in Liliann and raised two children whom he loved dearly.
His hobbies included delicious indulgent meals, family movie nights, rooting for NY sports teams (go Mets!), attending Islander games, dinner and a Broadway show, scuba diving with his son, body surfing, goading his socialist daughter, and always thinking mom is hot.
Known for his strong work ethic, intellect, dependability, and wry sense of humor, he was a mensch, and truly the best of us all. He will be sorely missed by those who love him, and will live on in our lust for life, and joy for each other.
He will be laid to rest at New Montefiore Cemetery, next to his grandparents Ben and Rose.
As an expression of sympathy and remembrance, the family asks that you provide for your extended family, do something together that brings you joy, and choose love.
Your memory will always be a blessing.
Burial at New Montefiore Cemetery following the Chapel Service.