Jerry Ralph Risi

Jerry Ralph Risi, age 86, formally of Edgewater Florida, passed away on Tuesday, March 17th, 2020. He was born to the late Gerardo and Maria Theresa Risi on March 31, 1933 and is predeceased by his wife Leona, sister Connie Killarney, and brother Michael Risi.

Jerry was born in The Bronx, New York. His dad emigrated from Salerno, Italy his mom from Sorrento, Italy. He was the youngest child of three with his sister Connie (Conchetta) and brother Mike. Jerry grew up in the Bronx and went to Gompers High School. He was called to serve his country in 1952 and spent time in the Korean War at Rhein-Main Air Base, Germany. He served in the Air force from 1952-1956.

Jerry met Leona on a blind date and they were married for 61 years. He called her his “bride”. They were married in a snow storm on Feb. 16, 1958. At the age of 25, he took a job as an installer at AT&T and worked there for 33 years. While at work on October 3, 1962, there was a terrible boiler explosion during lunchtime in a building in NYC. He was seated at a table with coworkers. Everyone at the table died except for Jerry. Jerry was able to save the lives of many, unfortunately over 25 people perished that day. He was recognized for his bravery.

After living in a small apartment in Brooklyn, they borrowed money from his mother and moved to Maspeth, Queens where they lived for 29 years. Jerry and Leona’s first child was Jerry, Jr. and 2 ½ years later, they had their lovely daughter Jennifer. In 1991, he and Leona moved to Edgewater, Florida. Their life in Edgewater was the envy of all. They lived down the street from Jerry’s sister Connie, were very close to their nieces Marie and Patty. It was here that they both enjoyed 25 years enjoying what only could be described as a care free and fulfilling life on the Intercoastal (Indian) River…a dream of theirs for many years. Gardening was his passion. He could grow anything! He enjoyed painting once a week with his nieces and enjoyed his glass of wine in the afternoon. He loved his steak and king crab legs but Leona always watched what he ate and ensured he kept his diet in check. His most important accomplishment is his devoted family.

Jerry is survived by his, two children, Jennifer (Steve) Garizio of Jacksonville Fl, and Jerry (Lisa) of Branchburg NJ, four grandsons, Matthew, Conor, Tom, and Pat, as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for him during the past few years. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St John Paul II Catholic Church attended by immediate family only with Father Michael Larkin as Celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a contribution be made to Catholic Charities Jacksonville Regional Office, www.ccbjax.org or by calling (904) 354-4846.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME OF MANDARIN, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. (904) 288-0025.