Gerard “Jerry” Deleissio, 68

Gerard “Jerry” Deleissio, a beloved husband and father, passed away at his home in Lancaster, PA on February 16, 2024, after a long and courageous journey with heart disease.

Born in the Bronx, NY, Jerry was the son of the late Gerard J. and Beatrice (Cappadocia). He was married to Jennifer Deleissio for over 20 years when they were blessed with their only child, Donnalyn Deleissio, the daughter that they prayed for all those years. He loved her with all his heart and would often take her to his favorite petting zoo, on hikes through nature to pick wildflowers for Jennifer, walking his beloved dogs and cooking delicious Italian meals for her. He loved to play his guitar for his family, making up silly songs that they still remember and sing to this day.

Jerry’s educational pursuits were diverse and reflective of his multifaceted interests. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, a field that resonated with his love for performing, playing and teaching musical instruments, especially the guitar. He worked in public and Catholic schools in New York City teaching music and gave private guitar lessons. His thirst for knowledge extended beyond music leading him to pursue an education in Information Technology, which paved the way for a successful career serving with distinction at Hershey Foods and Hershey Medical Center.

In his leisure time, Jerry found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He adored his six Chihuahua’s, finding comfort in their company as they watched his favorite television show, “Antiques Roadshow”, together. They were all by his side as he made his final journey. Cooking brought him immense satisfaction, especially when preparing Italian cuisines, and he took great pleasure in sharing his culinary creations with loved ones. An avid reader and nature enthusiast, he found serenity in the pages of a good book and the tranquility of the great outdoors. Two of Jerry’s favorite places were The Bronx Zoo and Bear Mountain in New York. He also loved introducing Jennifer to fine restaurants in New York City. His favorite restaurant was Annam Brahma in Queens NY, which was one of the first vegetarian restaurants in New York. As a huge fan of Al Lewis who played Grandpa Munster on the beloved TV show, the Munsters, Jerry loved taking Jennifer to Grampa’s Italian Restaurant where they got to meet and talk to Al Lewis who was the owner of the restaurant. Jerry had a hilarious sense of humor and loved The Three Stooges.

Jerry was a collector at heart, finding fascination in the intricacies of coins and the history behind ancient arrowheads, geodes and rocks.

In addition to his wife Jennifer of Lancaster, Jerry is survived by his most cherished daughter Donnalyn C. Deleissio and his six beloved Chihuahua’s, Shadow, Angel, Bear Bear, Heather, Blackberry and Pancake.

A gathering will be held at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584, on Saturday, March 2, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a celebration of his remarkable life at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Salvation Army 131 South Queen Street Lancaster PA 17603.