Gerald Pops Mussenden

Dr. Gerald "Jerry" Mussenden went to heaven on March 10, 2011. A man of many names, Pops or Coqui, lead a life of love, struggle, and humor. Jerry moved to the Brandon area from Bronx, NY in 1976 to secure a different life for his young and growing family. He was born on June 1, 1941 in El Barrio, NYC to his parents Geraldo and Adele Mussenden. Jerry graduated from Yonkers High School after excelling academically and athletically. Pops shared fond memories about being the football captain, playing basketball, running track, and being on swim team while working full time. His many high school extra-curricular activities showcased his work ethic that would continue to remain strong even in his final journey home. During a brief hiatus from school, Pops met his future Bride and worked many jobs in preparation for his academic return. He moved to Missouri to attend Tarkio College on a football scholarship and married his long-time love, Iris Prado, who was the Queen of his world. After graduation they moved to Utah where their family began. Iris and Jerry became new parents to Little Jerry while Jerry worked hard and earned his PhD in Psychology from Brigham Young University. After returning to their stomping ground in the Bronx, Iris and Jerry quickly realized they wanted a different life for their children. Down to Florida they came and flourished. Starting his own business as a Clinical Psychologist in Tampa, FL, the Mussenden Family continued to grow. Their second son, Ricky, quickly arrived followed by their daughter, Gina.

Prior to Jerry's battle with Multiple Sclerosis, his hobbies included long distance running, dancing, swimming, playing sports, and coaching little league. After his disease would no longer allow him to partake in his hobbies in the same capacity he would roll with the punches, never becoming bitter. He would attend the Spanish dances at church and smile from his cart as others could do the moves he once made with ease. He would become an even bigger cheerleader for his children who continued on in sports. Every obstacle to him was a catapult to make him a better man. Hardships made him appreciate life more, work harder, and love more. Giving up was never an option.

Jerry's upbringing and life might have been difficult but his example proved his beliefs were the complete opposite. Be happy, love intensely, and always laugh. His passion was his family then his work. He loved his profession and always professed he would never retire. True to his word he worked up until his death. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, whom he shared his abounding love and unending laughter. His sense of humor is well-known and lives on through his beloved children and cherished grandchildren, Antonio, Ana Maria, Adriana, and Alex (aka the Mussenden Monkeys). His strength, perseverance, and belief that everything will work out are an inspiration to all who came in contact with him. Jerry's humor was contagious and practical jokes will be remembered always. His children and grandchildren are blessed by his legacy and memories. Jerry was loved by many, and will be missed by all.

Jerry is survived by his "budgie", Iris Mussenden; his three loving children Jerry Mussenden and wife Jennifer, Ricky Mussenden and wife Tayleen, and his baby girl Gina; grandchildren, Antonio, Ana Maria, Alex, Adriana Mussenden; grand dogs Angel, Chiquito, and Baby Mussenden. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and brother Roger Mussenden. A memorial mass will be held at 10am Saturday, March 19, 2011 followed by a Celebration of Life at St. Francis of Assisi in Seffner, FL. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to www.BNAC.net a Multiple Sclerosis Research in Jerry's memory.