1924 – 2013
If queer San Franciscans are ever at a loss to thank the Catholic Church, we can indeed feel blessed for it sent us Father Gerald. Leaving the Holy Cross Benedictine Abbey in Colorado in 1967 he became Jerry and quickly came out to San Francisco in every way.
A gay rights pioneer, he was our 74th registered domestic partner. He fought tirelessly for rights for his beloved artist and partner, Barry Swyers. He politely protested the pope's visit here and wrote witty, lovely, and poignant pleas to priests, politicians, and newspapers.
He showed us how grateful a person can be. A thank-you note from Jerry's Selectric along with his fabulous purple script under Swyers's cover art was a real jewel in your mailbox.
"Without music, life would be a mistake." Jerry's second home was Davies Symphony Hall where he ushered with radiant glee since 1984. He never left his dream job.
But as liver cancer descended, fellow ushers, neighbors, and musicians offered 24-hour care so he could die in loving hands at home. Sharp until the end, Jerry elegantly ushered his own departure calling daily for champagne. Jerry died June 4, 2013, and eagerly joined his beloved mother, Lucille, each departing in their 89th year. In addition to Swyers, his partner of 40 years, Jerry is survived by his goddaughter Lily, and his family of dear friends.