Gerald Brown

June 14, 2022

Gerald F. Brown, 92, of Cicero, passed away on the evening of Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at St. Joseph's Hospital of complications of covid. He is survived by his sister, Barbara and his eight children, Virginia, Robert, Patricia, David, James, Laurie, Nancy, and Stephen, along with his 17 grandchildren, and an extended family of relations and friends from every walk of life. Gerald’s wife of 70 years, Mary, died February 9, 2021, also on a Tuesday. It is fitting that Gerald died as we celebrate Father’s Day as his life was all about his family. That is not to say he was a demonstrably loving father. He wasn’t, but he showed his love by supporting his wife and children in practical ways. Everyone of his children relied on his construction skills to improve their homes for their families. At 21 years old, Jerry, as he liked to be called, had already endured health problems. In his early years he had jaundice, which kept him out of school for over a year. He also had to live with epilepsy yet managed to enjoy a full, long, and productive life. Despite his medical issues, Jerry, was determined to carve out a living to provide for his family. With little formal education beyond high school, Jerry was able to teach himself the skills to be the supervisor for a variety of commercial construction projects, which in today’s market would require an engineering degree. Jerry was a reserved man with a droll sense of humor but did love his drink where he could release his more gregarious nature much to the chagrin of his wife. He was a history buff, an avid reader, and an excellent writer of letters where he would share his thoughts on life, love, marriage, and family. Perhaps his best quality was his unassuming need to help others. Even in his retirement years he stayed busy essentially giving away his construction knowledge and skill to neighbors and friends. We will miss his generous spirit. Calling hours for Jerry will be at Fergerson Funeral Home, 215 South Main Street, North Syracuse on Tuesday, June 21st from 4 to 6 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 am on Wednesday, June 22nd at Sacred Heart Church of Cicero, 8229 Brewerton Road (Rt. 11), Cicero. Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 https://www.stjude.org/donate.