Gerald W. Spillane

Gerald W. Spillane, Architect

Gerald William Spillane, aged 87, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, in Albany, NY. Born on November 10, 1936, in Flushing, NY, Jerry will be remembered for his quiet generosity, sharp wit, and deep devotion to his family, friends, and colleagues. He had a lifelong devotion to creating and improving the spaces around him.

Son of the late Gerald and Mildred Spillane, Jerry was a graduate of Red Hook High School and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, class of 1958, where he earned a degree in architecture. After college, Jerry served in the US Air Force from 1959 to 1962. He trained in meteorology at New York University and was stationed in Okinawa as a weather officer.

As an architect, Jerry's career spanned several decades, during which his design work reflected his motto: "We turn problems into solutions." He was a principal at several firms before co-founding Glynn Spillane Griffing Architects P.C. in Rensselaer, NY. His diverse portfolio included residential projects, community spaces, churches, schools, and convention centers. Each project reflected his commitment to thoughtful, lasting design and a respect for the people who would use the spaces. Even after retirement, Jerry remained active in his profession, delighting friends and family with custom designs and smart solutions for their homes.

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Patricia (Pulver) Spillane of East Greenbush, NY. Together, Pat and Jerry enjoyed a loving circle of longtime friends. They shared a love of travel, embarking on several European river cruises, exploring Ireland and enjoying extended stays in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Partners in every sense, Pat and Jerry shared a passion for yard and home projects that kept them working side by side for the six decades of their marriage.

Jerry was a loving father to Michael Spillane of East Greenbush, NY and Carrie Martin Daniels of Natick, MA and their spouses Jeannette Wilson Spillane and Jeff Daniels. He adored his grandchildren Alex (Laura) Wilson, Ryan Spillane, Eliza, Julia and Jack Martin, Emily and Cooper Daniels and two great-grandchildren, Ava and Carter Wilson. Ryan, following in his grandfather's footsteps, is currently studying architecture, a fitting tribute to Jerry's legacy.

Jerry is also survived by his sister, Patricia Burgevin Loeber of Rhinebeck, NY, and many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends who will miss him dearly.

In accordance with his wishes, a private service will be held to honor Jerry. He will be remembered through the beautiful spaces he designed and the love he shared with his family and friends.