Gerald Hailey Obituary

JOHNSON CITY - Gerald D. "Jerry" Hailey, a cherished member of the Johnson City community, passed gently into the embrace of heaven on August 13, 2023, at the age of 78, while at the NHC Healthcare Center.

Born in the warm heart of Jackson, TN, Jerry's spirit carried him to Chicago at a young age where his love for the Chicago Cubs was kindled. After successfully graduating from Lane Tech in Chicago, his quest for knowledge led him to Memphis State University and an array of esteemed banking and financial institutions.

Jerry's illustrious banking career began with Union Planters in Memphis. His journey took a turn toward the digital age when he joined the innovative technology company, Systematic Corp. This move brought him and his treasured family to Little Rock, AR. With an explorer's heart, Jerry traveled to over forty-two countries, crafting the international division of Systematics. Later, he graced the position of President of the Community Banking Division. His journey culminated with the Computer Science Corporation, illuminating the offices of both Chicago and New York City.

A man of profound faith, Jerry found solace and community at St. Elizabeth's Roman Catholic Church in Elizabethton. He wore his membership with the Knights of Columbus as a badge of honor.

Jerry was welcomed to heaven by his parents, JD and Veda Patterson Hailey, and his grandparents, James. Oberd and Estell Patterson of Jackson, TN.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife Sharon who was his best friend for over twenty-nine years. Their love story is celebrated through their children: James A. "Andy" Hailey (Lynn) of Bigelow, AR, Gerald Scott Hailey (Margaret) of Little Rock, AR, Angela Hailey-Gunnels (Charles) of Alexander, AR, Christy Isaacs (Tommy) of Elizabethton, TN, Jerald Christopher "Chris" Hailey (Sharon) of Little Rock, AR, and Heather Buckles (Allen) of Johnson City, TN; His legacy further blossoms with his grandchildren: Robert Hailey (Jamie) of Little Rock, AR, Hailey Bizzell (Andrew) of Fayetteville, AR, Dylan Hailey (Nikko) of Castro Valley, CA, Tayler Johnston (Toney) of Knoxville, TN, JD Hailey of Nashville, TN, Elijah Reed (Jordan) of Little Rock, AR, Ashlee Hill (Isaac) of Elizabethton, TN, Kailee Buckles (Keegan) of Elizabethton, TN, Anthony Hailey of Waco, TX, and Sloane Gunnels of Alexander, AR; and great-grandchildren: Logan and Luke Hailey, Reese Bizzell and Asher Hill, who brought immense joy to his life. Jerry's legacy is also remembered by his beloved aunts, Ann Morris of Bolivar, TN, Ellna Roland of Pinson, TN, and Barbara Sue Smith (Glen) of Bartlett, TN, as well as a host of loving cousins.

To honor Jerry's life, his family will warmly welcome friends on Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 10 to 11 am at Tetrick Funeral Services, Johnson City. A funeral mass celebrating his life will follow at 1 pm at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Elizabethton, with Father Jesus Guerrero presiding over the service. A graveside committal will be held in Jerry's honor at 2:15 pm in the serene surroundings of the Happy Valley Memorial Park in Elizabethton. Jerry's sons and grandsons will stand proudly as active pallbearers.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. Tetrick Funeral Services, 3001 Peoples Street, Johnson City, TN 37604, is honored to serve the Hailey family. (423) 610-7171.