Gerald Norman McKay II's Obituary
On the evening of December 11, 2023, Jerry McKay quietly slipped into Eternity. Gerald Norman McKay II was the first son born to Gerald “Jerry” and Arlene (Gourlay) McKay, arriving on December 22, 1958. A Christmas gift, Jerry joined his sisters and welcomed three more brothers as the family grew. The McKay’s moved several times around Detroit before settling down in Lupton where the kids enjoyed their Lake House years. Tragedy struck the young family in 1972 with the unexpected death of their father, Jerry, leaving the adolescent Jerry in turmoil. The shadow of this tragedy followed Jerry for the remainder of his years.
Jerry roamed around most of his life, always on the move, seeking the climate to match his moods. He spent the most time in and around Flint while in Michigan, escaping the winters for sunny Florida when he was able. Jerry enjoyed visiting his family during camping season and spending time dreaming up the next scheme of entrepreneurial enterprises. Jerry’s deep baritone voice spread his laughter near and far.
Jerry settled down as much as he was able with the birth of his daughters and remained devoted to them for the rest of his life, even from afar. He did the best he was capable of as a man, father, and grandfather. May his soul rest and Jerry find the peace he was ever-searching for.
Preceding Jerry in death are his parents, Jerry and Arlene; Stepfather, Louis Gula; Siblings Sharon Gearhart and Jeffrey Gula.
Jerry leaves behind his son, Benjamin Mercer; Daughters, Jerika McKay and Allyson McKay; Granddaughter, Gracelyn McKay; Siblings, Dorothy (Steve) Simon, John McKay, Jim (Mary) McKay, Kristina (Robert) Beers, and Randy (Sherry) Handschein; several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Remus, on January 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM with Father Tom Boufford as Celebrant.
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