Geraldine "Gerry" Jackson

GERALDINE “GERRY” JACKSON (nee Gill), 87, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2024. Beloved by her family and many friends. Loving mother of Jim (Linda), Jennifer Kalac (Russell Senato) and Colleen Forster (Jack); dearest grandmother of Patrick Monnolly, Kelli Thiel (Austin), Joshua (Kayla) and Brianna Jackson (Corbyn Muir), and Brendan and Dylan Forster; great grandmother of Kollin, Reagan, Zooey, Ainsley and Connor. She is proceeded in death by her husband John, her parents William and Jesse Gill, sister Janet Thomas, brother Robert Gill, granddaughter Brooke Jackson and sons-in-law Michael Wojtala and Thomas Kalac.

Gerry’s extended family, including her sister-in-law Jeanette, nieces, nephews and circle of longtime friends will miss her mischievous humor and generosity, which never wavered throughout her battle with Parkinson’s disease. She loved to talk books, sports, and current events.

She was a faithful fan of Cleveland teams, especially the Cleveland Guardians. She enjoyed lively get-togethers with friends and neighbors, especially if there were dogs to be petted or chocolate to be eaten. She lived in Cleveland, Parma, Catawba Island, Sheffield Lake, and Broadview Heights at various times in her life.

Gerry was a graduate of Kent State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education and began her career teaching elementary school in Parma. She founded Parma Pre-School in 1972 and was the administrator, owner and teacher for 27 years until 1999 and owner/administrator of North Royalton Nursery School from 1992-1995. As a female small business owner, she was proud to be a member of Zonta, a global nonprofit organization of individuals working together to build a better world for women and girls. She loved teaching the little ones and dedicated her life to helping children learn. After she retired, she was drawn back to teaching as a substitute at Lorain Community College Early Education Lab, St. Thomas the Apostle School and Sheffield Lake City Schools well into her 70’s.

Gerry was smart, funny and loyal throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The CURED Foundation, PO Box 32, Lincolnshire, IL 60069 or a charity of your choice.

Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 6750 State Rd., Parma, Friday, September 27, 2024 at 10 a.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends received at THE RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME, 5762 PEARL RD (AT SNOW RD) THURSDAY 4-7 PM.