Gerard “Jerry" J. Finnegan

Gerard "Jerry" Finnegan, 74, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. Born on March 20, 1950, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Jerry lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and passions.

Above all else, Jerry was a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife Kathleen; daughters Amy McNulty (Jim), Meagan Degginger (Mike), and Colleen Finnegan; grandchildren CJ and Sean McNulty and Sophia and Ronan Degginger; siblings Marie Serine, Karen Meyers, Tom Finnegan (Trent), and Mark Finnegan (Michelle); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his parents Tom and Joan Finnegan; sister Louise Marcus; niece Angie Serine; and other cherished family members who preceded him in eternal rest.

Jerry devoted 34 years of service to the United States Government Printing Office.

Beginning his career as an apprentice printer, he advanced through various roles, including procurement officer in Ohio and Assistant Manager in Louisiana. He retired in 2005 when the Louisiana office closed. His work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike.

A proud veteran, Jerry served for 20 years in the Army National Guard. Starting his military journey in Pennsylvania and concluding it in Ohio, he retired as a First Lieutenant with an infantry unit based in Washington Courthouse. His service exemplified his steadfast sense of duty and patriotism.

Jerry was a man of many interests. An extra-class amateur radio operator, he found joy in connecting with others over the airwaves. He was also an avid model railroad enthusiast who curated an impressive collection of HO-scale models that reflected his meticulous attention to detail and love for craftsmanship.

Faith played a central role in Jerry's life. A lifelong Catholic, he attended daily Mass until his health no longer permitted it. He cherished the camaraderie of post-Mass coffee gatherings where he enjoyed lively discussions with fellow parishioners. His devotion to Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos and St. Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio) provided him strength during his cancer journey.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Church located at 9350 High Free Pike, West Jefferson, Ohio 43162. The service will begin at 11:00 AM and following the burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery there will be a luncheon at the church. Family will receive friends before the Mass beginning at 10:00a.m.

Jerry's memory will live on through the lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for those around him. May his legacy bring comfort to all who knew him.

The Rader-McDonald-Tidd Funeral Home, 1355 W. Main St., West Jefferson, OH 43162 (614)-879-9222, assisted the family. Please visit www.radermcdonaldtiddfuneralhome.com to share your favorite memories and to send your condolences to the family.