For 44 years I’ve known Jerome as the patriarch of a family I hold very dear to my heart. I will always remember him as kind, gentle, and patient. But also as a man with a beautiful smile and tears rolling down his cheeks from laughing uncontrollably with my father at some ridiculous joke. I will cherish forever the memories of the many days I spent around Jerome and I am grateful to have him in my heart. I feel very fortunate to have him as a part of my life.