Jerry Davidoff, 58, optometrist, lecturer

Jerry Davidoff, 58, of West Chester, an optometrist, died of lung cancer on Wednesday, Nov. 30, at Chester County Hospital.

Dr. Davidoff joined his father Sydney's optometry practice in Broomall in 1981 and took over the practice when his father retired. Ten years ago, he opened a second office in West Chester.

In tributes sent to his family, Dr. Davidoff's patients commented on his sense of humor, his caring, and how comfortable he made them feel. He often provided optometric care for those who had no insurance, his family said.

A fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, Dr. Davidoff was a nationally recognized lecturer on vision problems. He was former chairman of the Chester and Delaware County Optometric Association, the Pennsylvania Optometric Committee, and the American Optometric Association's Vision Rehabilitation Section.

A native of Broomall, Dr. Davidoff graduated from Marple Newtown High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University in 1975 and a master's degree in biology from West Chester University in 1977. He graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 1981.

He worked on the stage crews for theatrical productions in high school and at Penn State.

In 1981, Dr. Davidoff married the former Teresa Lindsey, whom he had met when both were working at Chester County Hospital.

A talented craftsman, he refinished furniture and worked on improvement projects not only in his own house but also in his two daughters' homes, daughter Deborah said.

In addition to his wife, daughter and father, he is survived by another daughter, Davida; his mother, Shifra Davidoff; and a sister.

The funeral was Sunday, Dec. 4, at Levine & Son Memorial Chapel in West Chester. Burial was in Haym Salomon Memorial Park in Frazer.

Donations may be made to Chester County Hospital, 701 E. Marshall St., West Chester, Pa. 19380.