Philanthropist Linda Grunin, 75, Remembered As 'Remarkable Woman'

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Toms River philanthropist Linda Kalmanowitz Grunin, a respected lawyer and businesswoman and co-founder and co-chair of the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation, has died, her family announced Tuesday. She was 75.

"Linda was a remarkable woman, a respected lawyer, and a savvy businesswoman," her family said.

Linda, who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, was born Jan. 19, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY, and was raised at the Jersey Shore. Her passion and determination took her to Smith College in Massachusetts, where she graduated cum laude. She received her juris doctor degree from New York University School of Law, where she was only one of 10 women in a class of 300. It was at NYU that Linda met the love of her life and true partner, Jay, in 1966. Just three years later they were married and, on their way to practice law in a then-little town on the Jersey Shore called Toms River.

Over the next 30 years, as Ocean County became the fastest growing county in the state, Jay and Linda’s law practice thrived. Linda’s work ethic, moral approach to the law and ability to relate to her clients' needs made her one of the most respected attorneys in the county. She and Jay also expanded their business interests to include real estate and other investments.

In the late 1990s, Linda and Jay retired from the day-to-day law practice to concentrate full-time on their two greatest passions; investing and philanthropy. While Linda and Jay were always quietly philanthropic, in 2013 they began to formalize their philanthropy through the Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $14 million in the community, with an additional $17.5 million committed. This support is a testament to Linda’s hard work, dedication and compassion for her community.

Linda is predeceased by her parents, Sam and Irene Kalmanowitz. She is survived by her beloved husband of 48 years, Jay; her son, Jeremy and his wife, Laura; her grandchildren, Joshua, Rebecca and Emma; a brother, Stuart, and his wife, Pam, and nieces Karenina and Kamianna.

Funeral services will take place on Sunday, April 15 at 1 p.m. at Congregation B'nai Israel and burial will be immediately following at Congregation B'nai Israel Memorial Cemetery.

The family will observe Shiva at their residence at 9 Cranmoor Drive, Toms River, NJ. Shiva will be held Sunday, April 15th immediately following the services until 8 p.m. and Monday, April 16 and Tuesday, April 17 from noon until 6 p.m.

Photo provided by the Jay & Linda Grunin Foundation