Jerry was my brother-in-law. What a unique and wonderful guy he was. When our family first got to know Jerry, after he and Toby were dating for awhile, we knew she had found her soulmate. Never were two people more perfectly matched! They had so much in common. They were "partners in crime" with their antics. What one didn't think of, the other did. Then they would formulate their "plan of action" and proceed to execute it. It would take a book to recount the silly pranks the two of them came up with. I imagine it would be a best seller. What a pair. They had so much fun and laughter together. It was contagious. We always said "they deserve each other". They were two peas in a pod. Jerry brought so much joy to Toby and our family was so grateful she had finally found her man. I don't think I've ever known anyone who could come up with such wit so spontaneously. He'd have everyone around him in stitches. Even in the last few years, as his health declined, he never lost that sense of humor. Doctors, nurses, hospital staff were the recipients of his dry wit. He could brighten anyone's day. He was such a gentle soul, laid back, easy going, soft spoken, good-hearted, loyal, loving, caring...a family man. Now that he has passed on to his heavenly home, there is a void that will never be filled. He is already sorely missed. Thank you, Jerry, for the love and joy you brought to my sister, Toby. And to our family as well. I am so grateful for the many adventures you two were able to share over your 33 years together. You made so many wonderful memories and those will continue to live on. (I have to add, that when my husband, John, and I met, our first date was attending Toby and Jerry's beautiful outdoor wedding on June 8, 1991. John met our entire family in one clean sweep. After the ceremony, we followed that carriage to the reception and proceeded to have a wonderful first date...dancing, eating, socializing and being entertained by Jerry on the dance floor. He was quite the entertainer. He was quite the man. Thank you Jerry for coming into our lives and being an integral part of our family. You will always be loved.

I am saddened to hear of Jerry’s passing. We go way back to P.S. 75. I have memories of playing basketball in his backyard on Tremont and playing PAL Club baseball together. He was a very good athlete and a great guy, always fun to be around. My condolences to his family for their loss. Richard Harrell

God Rest His Soul! My prayer for Jerry's Family! With Thanks for his service to Country and City and his faithfulness as husband and father!

Jerry I will treasure our friendship forever.

We met when I started dating Chuck in 1974.

You were one of a kind, a special person with a heart of gold.

You were at every race party the night before the race except one. If we ever have another one it will never be the same.

Chuck has so many memories with you and cherish’s every one.

You will be very in our hearts forever.

Until we all meet again in heaven.!

Love,Chuck and Jeannie

A buddy, a friend and a big brother I never had. Jerry looked over me like a “ mother hen “. I guess that’s the way life is when you both come from small towns in southern Indiana.

On a more serious note, Jerry was that person you were fortunate to meet and proud and honored to have as a friend.

I sit here reminiscing about all the fun and good times we had.

We’ll never be able to sit and have a beer together again, but as long as I am setting there, Jerry will be too.

Life is so short and maybe Jerry knew that better than most. I never met a person that fought so hard and for so long with such a positive attitude. Jerry was thinking about everyone else so much, he didn’t have time to worry about himself.

I thank God for the time and fun we shared. This is a very sad day for me, but I know the smile will return, when I think about Jerry.

Will be Missed Forever, but never Forgotten

Rest In Peace Buddy

Ricky Dale and Mary Ann Arnold

Jerry you will always be remembered by us as the humorous cigar smoking avid golfer known as a Firefighter and a man all looked up to. We are Blessed to have known you. Was always a joy to spend time with you and Aunt Toby. You are home now. We will all see you in a blink. Big hugs to you Aunt Toby. We love you. All our love, David Kim Mackenzie Hailey Michael and Kristen

Ron Stout

Jerry was one of the greatest men I ever knew. His hard work ethic and love for all the people around him was always felt. He loved me like a son and I will always cherish that in my heart. Jerry was always about making someone smile or laugh their mind out. He took being funny to the next level and sometimes it was downright crazy. I loved every minute off it. Thank you so much for all your love and inspiration. I will miss you dearly, but you will always be in heart.

RIP Jerry and thank you for having one of my best friends Jason.

Got the pleasure of meeting Jerry after several years of knowing his sons. Yes it was at a bar and yes it was great fun listening to his stories through his life. From his high school, military, career, and his family stories of the boys growing up. Had much respect for this man in the short time we met. To the Gearries family I hope you find comfort and peace knowing so many people he touched, Lord rest his sole and protect and watch over his family in this time of grief.

Jerry was the best dancer I have ever seen. I was so happy when he met the love of his life, Tobey. They were made for each other. He was a great husband, Father, and Grandfather. He will be greatly missed.

All I can say is, What a guy. I admired Jerry for his accomplishments which I knew of thru our golf outings, my father-in law's stories and also the times we spent together crowd watching on 25th street the night's before the 500 Race. We could always depend on Jerry for his contribution to the annual "Steak Fry" including the awesome salad!

You will be missed sir.

My Condolences to Jerry's family. I was fortunate to meet Jerry when I joined the Winos. For the few years I knew Jerry it was always a pleasure to be around him. This guy had some "GREAT" stories when told! He was a great wino & person! He will be missed! RIP Jerry!

Fellow Wino - Kevin Watts