Gerald “Jerry” Lawrence Heather

Gerald “Jerry” Lawrence Heather passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023. Jerry was born to the late Dorothy and Lawrence Heather on September 23, 1940. He grew up in Massillon, Ohio attending St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduating from Washington High School in 1959. He was a proud Massillon Tiger.

Jerry served in the U.S. Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  Jerry married Dianne Mead in 1963, returning to Sterling, after being honorably discharged.  Jerry worked for Northwestern Steel and Wire for more than 30 years. He and Dianne raised two sons and built a home together. They came back yearly to Massillon to reconnect with their extended family. Jerry was devoted to his family, staying in close contact with his siblings, cousins, and their families.

They moved back home to Massillon after his retirement in 1999.  They joined St Barbara’s Catholic Church and became very involved with the bereavement committee and Folk group.

Jerry enjoyed woodworking, square dancing with Dianne and their friends, playing the organ, and playing cards. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandkids and great grand kids. He taught them to play cards (always enjoying when he won!), roasting marshmallows, sleepovers, and supporting them as they moved through the milestones of life.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane (Mead) Heather of over 50 years, his parents Lawrence and Dorothy Heather, his sister and brother-in-law Bill & Lois K. White, his brother Thomas Heather, his granddaughter Valerie Grace Heather, and his great-granddaughter Hannah Bucklew.

He is survived by his sons Scott (Stephanie) Heather and Timothy (Sue) Heather; his grandchildren: Melanie (Luke) Ewing, Samantha Heather, Juli Heather, Amanda (Stephen) Bucklew, Miles Heather, Jaimee (Michael) Ritter, Annelise Heather, Veronica Heather, Moriah Heather, and his step-granddaughter Rachel Suitter, his sister-in-law Joanne Heather; his many great-grandchildren along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Together again Jerry & Dianne.

Calling Hours will be held Thursday, September 14, 2023 at St. Barbara’s Catholic Church, 2813 Lincolnway W, Massillon, OH 44647,  from 9:30 AM – 10:45 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00AM.  Condolences and special memories of Jerry can be shared with his family online at www.heritagecremationsociety.com

Heritage Cremation & Burial Society
(330) 875-5770