Gerry Louise (Sorkin) Martin

Gerry Louise Martin of Middletown, CT passed away on April 10, 2025 at the age of 85 after a short illness. She leaves behind two beloved children–Amy Martin of New Britain and Jonathan Martin (with his partner Meg Lovejoy) of Melrose, MA; her devoted partner, Lew Adams; her close cousin Kharyn Leigh; many other cousins; and dear friends. Gerry was known for her sharp mind and her kind and generous spirit. She was a well-respected social worker, a skilled musician, and a strong advocate for progressive change. A loving and compassionate person, she consistently extended herself to others, both people and animals, with her time, energy, and resources.

Gerry was born in Queens, New York on October 2, 1939, to Abraham and Ethel Sorkin. She grew up in New York City and attended the High School of Music and Art and City College. In the 1960s and early 70s, she lived in various parts of New York State and in Danbury, CT with her first husband, Jack Martin, and their children. During that time, Gerry became involved in the era’s countercultural and social movements and, in the early 70s, helped launch the women’s liberation movement locally in Danbury. She also started her career as a social worker at Fairfield Hills Hospital in Newtown and soon earned a Master of Social Work from UConn. From the mid ’70s through the 90s, she worked in her field at the Community Mental Health Center in New Haven, Connecticut Valley Hospital (as a supervisor) and River Valley Services (as the Director) in Middletown, and Capitol Region Mental Health Center in Hartford.

Gerry spent the first part of her retirement in Albuquerque, where she embraced her passion for music as a flutist in local symphonic bands and orchestras. In her later years, she returned to Middletown, where she lived with Lew. Gerry will be deeply missed by all who knew, admired, and loved her.

The memorial service will be held at the Berlin Memorial Funeral Home, 96 Main St. Kensington, on Saturday, August 9th. Calling hours: 10-11am. Service:11am. Donations can be made to the Meriden Humane Society, 311 Murdock Ave., Meriden, CT. 06450 www.meridenhumanesocietyrescue.com

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