Jerome Michaelson

Jerome (Jerry) Elliott Michaelson, 83, of Huntersville, NC (formerly of Baltimore, MD and Simsbury, CT) passed away on April 14, 2025. Jerry was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on August 5, 1941, to Robert Michaelson and Ruth (Shanfeld) Michaelson. Along with his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his brother, Alan Michaelson. 

He is survived by his daughters, Lauren Michaelson Platts of Huntersville, North Carolina, Susie Michaelson Burbidge and son-in-law, Greg Burbidge of Grantham, New Hampshire, grandsons Cash Platts, Bourke Platts, and Ethan Burbidge, his brother Marc Michaelson, and sister-in-law, Dot Michaelson of Indio, California. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.

Following high school, he worked as a Merchant Marine and later obtained a law degree from Howard University. He went on to open his own law practice on Mt. Royal Ave. in Baltimore, MD, where he practiced for many years. In the mid-1990s, he moved to Simsbury, CT, where he spent more than 25 years, working first at the Bloomfield Racquet Club, then in the hardwood flooring business, and finally at Hop Meadow Country Club. Jerry had a zest for life and embraced adventure, meeting new people and making friends wherever he went. He was a “force” as described by all who loved him, and a “walking encyclopedia” with a brilliant mind and impressive knowledge of an extensive range of subjects. He could literally talk to anyone about anything. He was a connoisseur of Chinese food, had an intense love of sweets of all kinds (including but definitely not limited to elephant ears, flan, rice pudding, Tastykakes, chocolate marshmallow ice cream, and mandel bread). Among his many gifts, he had a special talent for organizing any and everything and could pack a car like nobody else. He admired and always found use for a “good cardboard box” or an empty bag or container. He was a master at trivia and roasting and peeling marshmallows, pronouncing words backwards, playing card games, and making his children and grandchildren laugh. He was funny, charming, fierce, and sharp. Though his “bark” could be loud, he loved deeply and valued the people in his orbit, always willing to lend a hand or share advice and his time. He had a passion for traveling, trains, racehorses, and singing along to his favorite Broadway show tunes. Most of all, he adored his three grandsons and enjoyed helping them thrive, learn, and grow. He was happiest when he was with his girls and grandchildren and valued family above all else. 

Jerry Michaelson, aka “Daddio”, “Dad”, “Pa,” and “Papa,” was one of a kind and will be profoundly missed. 

A celebration of life will be organized by his family at a later date.