Fr. Gerald T. McCaffrey, O.F.M., was a beloved figure at St. Bonaventure, a fixture at athletic events in every corner of the campus. Perhaps most iconic was his regular post in the Reilly Center Arena tunnel, standing tall with sleeves rolled up, his bare arms crossed over his barrel chest.
The tunnel, where SBU basketball teams enter the court on game days, now proudly bears Fr. Gerald’s name.
Alumni who spent time on campus between 1968 and 1994 fondly remember Fr. Gerald. Clad in his brown robe and sandals, regardless of the weather, he often had a signature pipe clamped between his teeth. He was a notable friar who roamed his beloved alma mater looking to cross paths with students whose lives he would influence during their college years and beyond.
A 1954 SBU graduate, he became a Franciscan priest four years later. During his 25-year SBU career he served as vice president of Student Affairs, Athletics Department chaplain, moderator of athletics, and math professor. For 18 years, he was a devoted friar-in-residence in Devereux Hall. “His door was always open, whether to help with a killer homework assignment or to talk about Bona’s hoops,” a Devereux resident recalled.
Affectionately known as “Uncle Barney” or “G.T.,” Fr. Gerald emphasized the importance of being present when needed, whether attending team practices and intramural games, giving counsel and comfort in difficult times, celebrating Mass, teaching calculus, or sharing stories.
At his 2009 induction into the SBU Athletics Hall of Fame, he was described as “a mentor, a calming voice, and a friend.”
In November 2023, MJ Telford, ’75, and Mary Piccioli, ’81, launched a grassroots fundraising campaign to honor their friend and colleague’s legacy. Letters were sent to alumni, friends and family who enthusiastically responded to the $100,000 goal, making the initiative a reality. More than 118 donors have generously contributed over $120,000 with gifts still being received.
The dedication ceremony was held on Feb. 8 in the Athletics Hall of Fame. Fr. Gerald’s family returned to campus for the event led by his niece, Amy Tuttle Steger, ’86, and her husband, Michael, along with their sons, Jack, ’22, ’23, and Josef, ’24, ’25, who assisted in the fundraising efforts. More than 80 donors attended the event, where a plaque honoring Fr. Gerald was unveiled.
The money raised will support renovations to the Reilly Center tunnel area, with remaining funds allocated to the Athletics Performance Center, a key priority of the university.
Naming the tunnel in his honor is an especially meaningful way to honor and embrace the legacy of Fr. Gerald, a cherished friar whose relationships, faith, service, and joy enriched countless lives at St. Bonaventure and beyond.
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