Gerald "Jerry" M Reilly
Photo
Gerald's obituary
Gerald M. Reilly (Jerry) of Port Charlotte, FL, passed away peacefully at the age of eighty-eight on March 9, 2025. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he spent much of his life in Yardley, PA; Tafton, PA; and Punta Gorda, FL.
He leaves behind his three children: Sean (Ciaran), Patrick (Karen), and Michael (Catherine) Reilly. He was a proud and loving "Papa" to his eight grandchildren: Erin, Nolan, Kerry, Megan, Bridget, Shane, Blair, and Sam, and cherished "Uncle Jerry" to Catherine Paterson and Joy Browne. Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Donna; his parents, John and Eleanor Reilly; and his siblings, Eleanor, John, and Claire. He is survived by his younger brother, Rick.
Jerry was a dedicated and hard-working entrepreneur, founding multiple businesses, including his family business, Reilly Sweeping, Inc. He was US Army Veteran, a devout Catholic and a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus at Holy Trinity Church in Morrisville, PA.
He had a lifelong love of boating and carried a Master Captain’s license. Every boat he owned – and there were many over the years – was named Sarah J., a name Donna loved. His love of adventure extended beyond the water, too. Jerry had a passion for anything on wheels. He loved the thrill of motorcycles, dirt bikes, four-wheelers, and golf carts – anything that could take him on the open road or down a winding trail. He also had a deep passion for vintage cars and trucks. He spent countless hours restoring them, showing them at car shows, and enthusiastically sharing his knowledge and stories with anyone who shared his love of engines and craftsmanship.
Jerry also had a special appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved a good diner and there was always room for dessert – whether it was a slice of pie, bowl of ice cream, or a handful of candy, his sweet tooth was legendary.
Above all, Jerry loved his family fiercely and was a generous man.
A Memorial Service will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda, FL, on April 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry's honor to the Florida Sheriff's Youth Ranches (PO Box 2000, Boys Ranch, FL 32064) or Sacred Heart Catholic Church (211 W. Charlotte Avenue, Punta Gorda, FL 33950).
Send to someone
Want to stay updated?
Send flowers
Memories & condolences
With sincere sympathy to the Family in the loss of their father, grandfather, and uncle, my remembrances are of both Je…
With sincere sympathy to the Family in the loss of their father, grandfather, and uncle, my remembr…
With sincere sympathy to the Family in the loss of their father,…
Send flowers
Share this memorial website
Share with others
