In Memory of Gerald “Jerry” Lerner

Gerald “Jerry” Lerner of Naples, Florida passed away on July 1, 2022 at the age of 94.

Jerry was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 13, 1927, to the late Morey and Jewel Lerner. The youngest of three, Jerry was preceded in death by his two adored older sisters, Shirley (Jack) Lubeznik and Fern (Hank) Engle. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Helen Lerner; daughters Wendy Buckley, Marla (Kurt) Huddleston and Adrienne (Randy) Bergquist from a previous marriage; stepson Steven Schwartz; grandchildren Alice (John) Tobin, Blair Bergquist, Evan Huddleston, Ryan (Katie) Bergquist, Kyle Schwartz and Jessica Schwartz; great-grandchildren Sean Tobin and Addison Ashcraft, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In his youth Jerry played baseball and was an accomplished saxophonist. He had a diverse career, beginning with working for his uncles at a car dealership which he eventually owned. Later he owned three McDonald’s restaurant franchises in Virginia, and finally owned a gourmet popcorn shop until he retired. His greatest accomplishment, however, was his dedication to family. We will continue to love and cherish him in our memories.

The family asks that any donations made in Jerry’s honor go toward Kids and Clays Foundation supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities: https://kidsandclays.com/.