Gerald A. O'Neil, Jr.

Rensselaer- Gerald "Jerry" A. O'Neil, Jr., age 84 passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Friday, September 20, 2024.

He was born April 4, 1940, in Albany, NY to the late Gerald A. O'Neil and Jane (McGuire) O'Neil. He was raised in Rensselaer and lived most of his life in Albany with his wife and children until returning to Rensselaer. Jerry was a graduate from St. John's Academy in 1958 where he was known as the "Big O" for his skills on the basketball court. He attended St. Michael's College and graduated in 1963 with a bachelor's degree in business. Jerry began his long career in sales where he worked for many years. He also worked part time for 30 years at Saratoga Harness Track, where he acquired his love for horses. From the age of 65 to 82 Jerry was a proud bus driver to many children who adored him.

Everyone who met Jerry loved him. He was never for a lack of words and often had a story to tell that ended in laughter. Jerry had a passion for traveling with his beloved wife, golfing, fishing, visiting Saratoga in August, Lake George, Bolton Landing, and watching the Boston Red Sox's. He cherished spending time with his grandchildren, Kimmy, and Rocco, and taking them on many adventures, especially yearly vacations in Florida to Disney and Delray Beach.

Jerry lived a long life, filled with love surrounded by his children and friends. His son Steve providing love and companionship after the passing of his wife Mary. Over the last year, he loved living with his daughter, Jennifer, and family. He was very thankful for the care provided by his daughters, Jennifer and Maureen and his son in law John.

He was the husband of Mary Carmen Booan, whom he married in Cooperstown on November 22, 1968. He will be greatly missed by his children Gerald (Denise) O'Neil, III, Stephen O'Neil, Jennifer (John) Haggerty, and Maureen O'Neil. Grandfather of Kimberly, Rocco, Michael, Christopher, and Nicole. Great grandfather of Christopher, Ava, Scarlett, and Michael. Jerry was an only child after his father was killed in World War ll at the age of 4 years old and he leaves behind many cousins who were like siblings to him. His cousin George Morrissey played an intricate role in his life over the years. Jerry looked forward to his daily calls from his dear cousin. They shared a very special bond, like brothers.

Also survived by many special friends Barbara Mulderry, the Southwood Family, Barbie Conde, Elizabeth Stewart, the Dolans and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Hospice for their wonderful care and support.

Funeral from the W.J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer, Wednesday morning at 9:00 AM and 10:00 at St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph Church Herrick Street Rensselaer where the funeral mass will be offered.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the funeral home Tuesday from 4-7PM. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, East Greenbush.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jerry's memory to the Gerald O'Neil Post #1683. The family would like to thank the post for honoring Jerry fathers memory and continuing to support the community