Geraldine Louise Grady
OBITUARY
Geraldine Louise Grady passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, following complications from heart failure. She was 88 years old with a youthful spirit and sense of humor, proudly sharing that she had a designer pacemaker from France.
A devoted mother, cherished grandmother known as “Gigi,” loyal friend, and affectionately nicknamed “HRH” (Her Royal Highness), Jerri treasured time with her family above all else. She found great joy in traveling the world and nurturing lifelong friendships, especially with her beloved Cooking Club, a remarkable circle of twelve women who shared more than 60 years of laughter, meals, and treasured memories.
Since the passing of her adoring husband of 59 years, Thomas Grady, in 2020, life was never quite the same. Jerri missed Tom deeply, and their enduring love remained a guiding presence throughout the rest of her life.
Jerri lived in her cherished home for more than six decades, where she created a lifetime of meaningful memories and built close relationships with neighbors. She delighted in reading two newspapers each day, staying engaged with the world around her, and keeping closely connected to her family. She also possessed a beautiful singing voice and, in earlier years, enjoyed playing the piano. She loved theater, her Sinjin garden, and took great pride in her beautiful 60-year-old camellia trees.
Born in Galesburg, Illinois, to Cleon Johnson and Dorothy Fruland, Jerri was the oldest of three daughters alongside her sisters, Judi and Jan. She attended the University of Illinois, where she was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Theta, before eventually settling in San Diego. There, she met her husband in Mission Beach and began the beautiful life they built together.
She is lovingly remembered by her four children: Anne, Stephen, Susan, and Michael, and her eight grandchildren: Ryan, Tommy, Thomas, Makayla, Elyse, Owen, Avery, and Cameron.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers and donations, Jerri’s wish would be simple: Love your family and be kind in the world.