Gerald "Jerry" J. Lafferty Jr.'s Obituary
Gerald J. “Jerry” Lafferty, Jr., age 91, passed away Sunday, February 16, 2025 in Grand Rapids. He was born on August 4, 1933 in Muskegon to Gerald J. and Amelia (Witt) Lafferty, Sr. Jerry served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He began his working career at Continental Motors, and then ended his career as an engineer / draftsman at Dura Automotive for many years before he retired in 1998.
Jerry was a passionate and award-winning darkroom photographer who dedicated his life to capturing the beauty of nature through his lens. His keen eye and artistic vision brought landscapes to life, earning him admiration among fellow photographers. He was a proud member of the Photographic Society of America (PSA), the Muskegon Camera Club, where he found camaraderie and shared his love for the arts. He also belonged to the Irish American Club of Muskegon.
On January 15, 1955, Jerry married the former, Margaret R. “Peggy” Gearin, in Worcester, MA. For 56 wonderful years, they built a life together, supporting each other’s passions and embracing every adventure. Peggy preceded him in death on July 20, 2011.
SURVIVORS include four children: Diane (Michael) Wright, Gerald Lafferty III, Donna (Eric) Thompson, and Michael Lafferty; five grandchildren: Michael (Tara) Wright, Jr., David Wright, Megan (CJ) Thompson, Matt (Kayla) Thompson and Sean Thompson; eight great grandchildren: Emma, Caitlyn, Steven, Dexter, Sophia, Addison, Brooks, and Grayson; his brother, James “Jim” Lafferty; along with several nieces and nephews. Jerry was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Peggy Lafferty.
A VISITATION for Jerry will be Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231-798-1100).
A private family burial will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Muskegon, MI. Memorial Contributions in Jerry’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital will be appreciated.
Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com.
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