John Jay College Athletics

New York, N.Y.— Many current and former employees of John Jay College of Criminal Justice were on hand Wednesday evening to give a final farewell to friend and former coworker Tyrone Oree as the recently retiree was sent away with a farewell party at the Haaren Hall Gym located at 899 Tenth Avenue.

More than fifty friends and former coworkers of Mr. Oree, who had spent the past 20 years in the Department of Physical Education and Athletics in various capacities, including equipment manager and business manager, were on hand to help celebrate his 38 years of service to the College.

“This is very overwhelming and I really appreciate the outpouring and love,” said Mr. Oree in his remarks. “I will always have John Jay blood going through my veins. It has been a wonderful run.” 

The event got started at about 5 p.m. with a mix and mingle hour which included an open buffet. Then at 6 p.m. the formal portion of the event began with a welcome address by interim Director of Athletics and head baseball coach Dan Palumbo who entertained the attendees by dressing similar to Mr. Oree with his traditional overcoat, hat and sunglasses. 

Shortly after the welcome address, Crystal Farmer, a Local 384 member, the union in which Mr. Oree was very active in, left her remarks. 

“Tyrone has always been a friendly and good guy,” said Ms. Farmer. “We all wish him well in his retirement.” 

Shortly after, his proud wife Esther M. Oree made remarks and presented a tribute video of Mr. Oree’s life. 

“I am very proud to say I am Mrs. Tyrone Oree, Mrs. Esther M. Oree,” said Mrs. Oree. “This is where we met and this is where we fell in love.” 

The event wrapped up with an open microphone session where many of Mr. Oree’s friends and coworkers shared their thoughts, feelings and experiences with Mr. Oree. 

Then the event concluded with the guest of honor coming forward to be congratulated with his gift, a state of the art digital camera, a Nikon D40.