Jeremiah A. Fitzgerald Jr. Obituary
Jeremiah A. "Jerry" Fitzgerald, Jr. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. He was 93 years old.
Jerry was born in Gloucester, Massachusetts to parents Abbie May (McDonald) and Jeremiah A. Fitzgerald, Sr. He had many fond memories of growing up on Liberty Street and adventures with his neighborhood friends, particularly with his lifelong best friend, Frank Favalora. He attended St. Ann's School of Gloucester, and Gloucester High School. As a young man he enjoyed playing numerous recreational sports and was known for his sharp pool hall skills. In 1958, Jerry met and married the love of his life, Joan M. (Fears) Fitzgerald of Rockport. They were married for 61 years until her passing in 2019.
After marrying, Jerry moved to Joan's hometown where they raised three children and were lifelong residents until recent years. Jerry was an exceptionally hard worker and typically held two if not three jobs at the same time. He was a member of the former St. Joachim's Church of Rockport and belonged to several Gloucester fraternal organizations. Jerry coached various Rockport youth sports teams for more than 20 years, including Little League and girls' basketball and softball. He was an avid supporter of the four major Boston professional sports teams, and a lifelong fan of Red Sox great Ted Williams.
Born on the 4th of July 1930, Jerry was proud to be a "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and told everyone his town held a birthday parade in his honor every year. His greatest love was his family, and family gatherings were his greatest joy. Jerry was happiest when his home was filled with his children and grandchildren. Later in retirement, he and Joan moved to Rutland, Massachusetts to be closer to their family.
Jerry leaves behind two sons and a daughter, Paul M. Fitzgerald and partner Jace of Boston, Craig F. Fitzgerald and wife Jane of Rutland, and Michele Fitzgerald Fay and husband John, also of Rutland. He is also survived by five granddaughters, two great-granddaughters, and one great- grandson. Jerry was predeceased by his two brothers, Joseph Fitzgerald, Sr. of Rockport, and John 'Jack' Fitzgerald of Gloucester.
To know Jerry was to love him. He will be incredibly missed and remembered forever.
Services will be private at Beech Grove Cemetery, Rockport. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Rose Baker Senior Center, 6 Manuel F. Lewis Street, Gloucester, MA 01930.
Arrangements by Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, MA 01930.
