Gary Urda New York Obituary: Renowned SVP of Sales at Simon & Schuster Passes Away at 59
Gary Urda, a highly respected and accomplished Senior Vice President of Sales at Simon & Schuster, tragically passed away on the morning of June 24 after collapsing at the gym. He was 59 years old.
The news of his sudden demise was announced by Simon & Schuster CEO Jonathan Karp, who praised Urda as an exceptional colleague and a quintessential sales executive with unparalleled knowledge of the publishing industry.
Urda’s illustrious career at Simon & Schuster spanned over two decades, beginning in 1996 as VP of sales development at Pocket Books. He went on to hold various leadership roles, including VP and director of distributor sales and retail management, VP and associate publisher at Atria Books, and finally, SVP of sales since 2017. His visionary leadership played a pivotal role in the success of numerous bestselling books and authors.
Prior to joining Simon & Schuster, Urda served as VP of wholesale sales at Bantam Books and director of sales at Lightning Source. He held an MBA from Lehigh University and a BSBA from Villanova, demonstrating his academic excellence and dedication to his craft. Moreover, Urda was a talented author, having penned two children’s books, “Love You More” and “Daddy and Me,” showcasing his creative flair.
Gary Urda is survived by his loving wife and two sons, with whom he resided on Long Island. His family and colleagues are devastated by his untimely passing, and plans to honor his memory are currently being arranged. Until further notice, his staff will report to COO Dennis Eulau.
Throughout his distinguished career, Urda was revered for his unwavering dedication, expertise, and passion for the publishing industry. His contributions to Simon & Schuster were instrumental in shaping the company’s success, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate his colleagues.
Urda’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the publishing community, with many taking to social media to pay their respects and offer condolences to his family and friends. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, both personally and professionally.
As the news of Urda’s passing continues to reverberate, his colleagues and friends are coming together to celebrate his life and achievements. His commitment to excellence, his infectious enthusiasm, and his unwavering support for his colleagues will never be forgotten.
Gary Urda’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his craft. His contributions to the publishing industry will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of publishing professionals.
Gary Urda’s sudden passing has left an indelible mark on the publishing community. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his contributions to Simon & Schuster will never be forgotten. As the industry mourns the loss of a true visionary, his family and friends will continue to honor his legacy and celebrate his life.
Gary Urda’s passing is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come.
