Gerald Lee Whisman Sr.

Gerald (Jerry) Lee Whisman, Sr., a devoted husband, father, Pop-Pop, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of the Newark, Delaware area, Jerry will be remembered for his kind heart, welcoming smile, and the deep love he shared with everyone around him. To know him was to love him. Jerry was a friend to all. Jerry dedicated 26 years of his career to Discover as a Customer Service Manager, where he was admired for his patience, integrity, and genuine care for others. He was a source of legacy knowledge and wisdom—someone colleagues looked to for guidance, support, and mentorship. His calm presence and problem-solving nature left a lasting impact on those he worked with. After retirement, he continued to share his warmth and people-first spirit as a dining room host at Christiana Chick-fil-A, where he brought joy to guests and made everyone feel at home for more than seven years. A man of many talents and passions, Jerry found joy in gardening and took great pride in meticulously landscaping his home. He had a love for travel—especially trips to Cape Cod and Maine—and cherished time spent with his loyal Bichon Frise, Oliver. Jerry had a beautiful singing voice, a knack for cooking, and a heart that lit up during family gatherings. Fittingly, his ringtone was “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”, a reflection of his ever-optimistic spirit. For decades, Jerry delighted children and adults alike by playing Santa Claus for friends and the community—a tradition he began at the age of 16. Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Donna Smith Whisman; his children: Jerry Jr. (Lisa) Whisman, H. Michael (Heather) Whisman, and Helen Marie Whisman; and his adored grandchildren: Abigail, Hannah, Leah, Andrew, Madison, Lillian, and Brooke. He is also survived by his brother, David B. Whisman, III, along with many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, David B. Whisman, Jr. and Alice Walker Whisman. The Whisman family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Jeanes Hospital, St. Francis Hospital, and St. Francis Home Health Care for their outstanding care and support throughout Jerry’s illness. A private memorial service will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA. To send an online condolence please visit www.stranofeeley.com Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home 302-731-5459

Gerald Lee Whisman Sr.

December 12, 1953 - April 19, 2025

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