Jeffrey D. Bittner, 27, of Manhattan, New York, was among the thousands who tragically lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He was working on the 89th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center when the second plane struck. A beloved son, brother, and friend, Jeffrey is remembered for his warm spirit, sharp wit, and boundless compassion for others.
Early Life and Family
Born on January 7, 1974, in Connecticut, Jeffrey was the cherished son of Carol and Donald Bittner. He grew up in Wethersfield, CT, alongside his twin sister, Pamela, and brother, Michael. From an early age, Jeffrey demonstrated an innate sense of humor, intelligence, and care — qualities that would define his life.
His bond with Pamela was especially strong. The twins spoke every day, and Jeffrey often reminded her, playfully, that he was “older by one minute.” To her, he was not just a brother but a protector and confidant. “He was protective, nurturing, wise,” Pamela said. “He was quite a protective big brother, always concerned about making sure I was happy and safe.”
Education and Career
Jeffrey graduated from Kingswood-Oxford School in 1992 before attending Middlebury College, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science in 1996. His academic achievements reflected his curiosity about the world and his drive to make a difference.
In New York City, Jeffrey built a successful career in finance. Colleagues admired his professionalism, diligence, and sense of humor that brightened even the most stressful days. Yet despite his success, he never lost sight of what truly mattered — his relationships with family and friends.
A Heart for Service and Connection
Beyond his professional life, Jeffrey was known for his compassion and generosity. Just weeks before the attacks, he had enrolled in a Big Brother mentoring program to support New York City schoolchildren. His family said this act perfectly captured who he was — always ready to lend his time and energy to help others.
Jeffrey also shared a loving relationship with his girlfriend, Laurie Healy, and the two were building a future together. Friends and loved ones describe him as loyal, fun, and sincere, someone whose laughter and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Legacy and Remembrance
Though Jeffrey’s life was cut short on that fateful day at the World Trade Center, his spirit continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His family remembers him not for how he died, but for how he lived — with integrity, humor, and boundless love.
He is remembered as a son who made his parents proud, a twin brother whose bond defied time, and a friend whose loyalty never wavered.
“Jeffrey was the kind of person who made you feel valued,” one family friend said. “He was the guy who always showed up — for his friends, his family, and even for strangers.”
May Jeffrey D. Bittner, and all those lost on September 11, 2001, rest in eternal peace. Their memories live on in the hearts of those who love them and in the enduring story of courage, unity, and hope.
