Jerry C. Gerard

Jerry Clarence "PJ" Gerard went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, May 21, 2021.

Jerry was born on July 3, 1940, to Mary Opal Sanders Gerard and Clarence Herman Gerard in Tyler, Texas . Raised in Tyler, Texas he graduated from Tyler High School in 1958.  He maintained a relationship and connection with many of those classmates still today. He attended Texas Christian University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree in 1962. He taught high school history for many years before completing his Master's certification from The University of North Texas University. In 1968, he began a long career with Pfizer Pharmaceutical Company, traveling throughout West Texas. After retiring from Pfizer in May 1998, he continued in an Ambassador role and worked as a consultant for Pfizer for many years. "Mr. Pfizer" for West Texas, Jerry trained many representatives and always served his physicians, pharmacies and hospitals in this area well. His accolades and awards are numerous and would fill pages.

He joined Brook Hollow Christian Church in 1968 and continued to serve that church, acting as a deacon and a Trustee for that congregation. He loved his church and his commitment was evident through his service.

Having raised his family, he took on a role that many would have never seen possible when he began raising two grandchildren 13 years ago. "PJ" became a very active parent again taking on Boy Scouts, drum lessons, theater rehearsals, sports activities and most of all the responsibility of teaching and loving those children like his own. His presence will forever be missed in their lives.

He is survived by those two children: Kurt Nash and Layton Guinn.  He is also survived by his loving wife, Brenda Gerard; daughter's Julie Fortunato of St. John's and JoCarolyn (Bill) McVeigh of Arlington, Texas. A son, Jay Gerard (Carrie Laughlin) of Austin, Texas and two grandchildren, whom he took such great pride in, Courtney and Zach McVeigh.  His loving stepchildren include Tawny Hann, Morgan Layton and Misty Layton (Casey) Cumby and Two step-grandchildren, Caroline Cumby and Duncan Cumby survive him. Additionally, Haylee Holt (Jeff) Tallant, Cooper and Brooks survive him. He is survived by two nephews, cousins and a host of family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Roy.

Until February 2, 2021, Jerry could be found on the Abilene Country Club golf course many days. If he wasn't playing golf, he was playing cards with his buddies. Those buddies and fellow players survive him and are going to miss him dearly.

Jerry's gentle spirit and giving heart were evident in his love for all children and his commitment to hosting them on trips and in his home.He was many children's "PJ". He was an active "driver" for Meals On Wheels" and often gave of his time and resources.

To say he was loved is an understatement. His wonderful smile and his enthusiasm for all things "life" were contagious. He was an avid golfer,  hunter,  fisherman, diver and skier. He was a member for many years of the "West Texas Skier's" Organization and traveled all over the world to ski. His zest, enthusiasm and passion for life was contagious. That same passion was what was driving him today to raise these grandchildren. He was a "salt of the earth" man.  What a legacy he leaves behind!

His love for all things TCU was known to everyone. He loved and attended many of their sporting events and never stopped being a "horned frog."Because of his love for TCU, we welcome you all to wear purple to his service. We will fill the sanctuary with TCU purple.

Visitation will be held at Piersall Funeral Directors from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 25. Service will be held on Wednesday, May 26 at 10:00 AM at Brook Hollow Christian Church, 2310 South Willis. Burial will immediately follow at Potosi Cemetery.

Pallbearers are:

Britton Waldron

Dan Peterson

Pete Ramirez

Bill Shahan

Steve Crow

Gary Scott

Britt Bilberry

Charlie Moore

Honorary Pallbearers include:

Travis Sears

Bill Hollowell

Bill Anderson

Jerry Cooper

Larry Rushing

Larry Pittman

Keith Shahan

Adam Ramirez

The family asks that any contributions be made to:

Cancer Services Network

1218 North 4 ^th , # 213

Abilene, Texas 79601

Brook Hollow Christian Church

2310 South Willis

Abilene, Texas 79602

Meals on Wheels

717 North 10 ^th

Abilene, Texas 79601