Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Gerald Thomas O'Leary
Gerald Thomas O'Leary
Obituary
Guest Book
Gerald O'Leary Obituary
Mary Jean O'Leary lost her husband, Gerald Thomas O'Leary, and her brother, Robert McCarthy, on Sept. 11. Mr. O'Leary, 34, was a sous-chef at Cantor Fitzgerald. He had just quit working at the Plaza Hotel — he cooked for Joan Rivers's daughter's wedding there — to work more manageable corporate hours. It got him home to Stony Point to play with his son, Michael, born on Sept. 28, 2000.
"He wanted him to walk by his first birthday," Mrs. O'Leary said. "That was his big thing. Every night they would practice." Mr. O'Leary's father also died at 34, and Michael is named for his father's grandfather and role model.
"He loved to cook," Mrs. O'Leary said. "He was a great saucier; his sauces were just unbelievable." She would thaw a piece of meat and he would give her four or five recipes to choose from. "I still can't figure out what he did," she said. "I never watched him." Now both she and her sister-in-law have to learn to cook.
The two couples, who lived around a corner from each other, had a running lawn-care competition. They'd help each other but also try to tire each other out. Who won? "I'll have to go with Ger on that," Mrs. O'Leary said. "It was pretty close."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tom H
September 12, 2023
Remembering you today
Kenna O'Leary
November 28, 2021
The last time I saw my cousin, Gerald O'Leary, was at The Plaza. Family reunion, I think. Jerry had the greatest smile. As kids, we would spend summer days out in Sag Harbor at out Grandpa Mike's and Grandma Ann's house. Hard to believe he has been gone for twenty years. I think about Mary Jean and Michael, hope they are well. Jerry will always be remembered; he truly made such an impression on others.
S J. FrisciaiII
September 16, 2015
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Dee Dee
September 11, 2013
Gerry, you and I worked in AJ's together and laughed and laughed. Miss you, Once of the nicest people I've ever met, always smiling never angry!
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Patrick McGrinder
September 11, 2012
I worked with Jerry at the plaza hotel and I used to search him out just to talk to him. It was always a pleasure, thanks Jerry !
Patrick J McGrinder
Michelle Porcelli
March 17, 2012
God Bless you all today! Our prayers go out to you all. I found your husband's recipe for Irish Soda Bread and made it in his honor.
Love and Prayers,
Michael, Michelle, Giovanna, Michaela Porcelli of Sarasota, FL (originally from New York)
Patty O'Leary
September 11, 2011
For the tenth anniversary of 9/11 I listened to every name of lost loved ones read at the ceremony. One name stood out- Gerald Thomas O'Leary. I went on line to find out more about him and discovered he was much loved and gave much love. How your hearts must ache today! I hope you find joy and peace in what must be great memories of Jerry. I was born at St. Vincent's Hospital, near the WTC. My father was a New Yorker, his name was Gerald Thomas O'Leary (Jerry). My brother was Gerald Michael O'Leary (Michael). Today I feel a profound connection with your family. God bless you.
Debra Twarog
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you Jerry, my fellow classmate ...CIA, 10/13/89. God bless you and your family.
September 11, 2011
10 yrs. I am still here, I will never forget.
I wish you were here for me.
I need you.
I miss your support.
Love you. Jerry.
Donna
Anne Mackle Wagner
May 25, 2011
I think of you often and I remember your family in my prayers.
Marlene
May 2, 2011
Justice has been served, Jerry. It is all so bittersweet. Host a giant banquet in the heavens . Cook up a qiant feast!!!!
Donna Kirchstetter
September 10, 2010
Here we are again...it never gets better
Miss you Jerry
April 28, 2010
Sorry for your loss.
Beverly Iametti from Stony Point, NY
Alice (O'Brien) Gunther
September 11, 2009
I attended school with Jerry in St. Mary's. I remember him as a cheerful, good-natured young man with a sense of humor. May God rest his soul and give comfort to his family.
My prayers are with all of them tonight.
Dee Dee
September 11, 2009
Jerry your in my thoughts! The victims are in my thoughts as well!!
September 11, 2009
Thinking of you.
Miss you every day
Donna
Gerard O Leary
August 7, 2009
Greetings from Ireland ! My name is Gerard O Leary and I am from Ireland. I was in New York on 9/11 and saw the first of the towers fall. I was just seeing if there was any people with my name on Google and I came across Geralds name.
May he rest in peace .....The world is so small and there are so many connections out there.
My very best wishes to you and your family and friends,
Gerard
Doug Abraham
May 26, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Donna Kirchstetter
September 11, 2008
I am sitting with the kids for the first time and they are eager to let you know how much they love and miss you. I am still shocked that you aren't here. Your smile is still foremost in my mind. I think of you everyday. Miss you. Love you
Donna
Donna Kirchstetter
May 26, 2008
Happy Birthday
Miss you!!!!
Doug Abraham
May 26, 2008
Happy Birthday & Memorial Day!!!
Joey Schimek
September 25, 2007
I remember Jerry from the neighbor hood,Maspeth Queens.He was a good Hearted guy,I remember him and Scott Stegman Hanging Out With Me In Back pages one night we had a blast,I couldn't stop laughing with the two of them. That's how i remember him as a good fun person,And a good cook too.... God bless you Jerry!!And my prayers too your family,,,,
Donna
September 11, 2007
I miss you just as much today as I did six years ago. Take care of Mom.
Love, Donna
Doug Abraham
May 26, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
kassy zaitz
April 4, 2007
Just wanted you to know you were on my mind today. We miss you.
P Tabbernor
January 18, 2007
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 22, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Johhny B
November 21, 2006
This great guy carried us through our novice, bantam, rookie and intermediate basketball seasons at St. Mary's with a sideshot that no defensive player could stop. He was good. He was a great guy that you could hang out and talk with. Always ending w/ a good laugh. Alot of good memories that I won't forget. I'm smiling as I'm typing thinking about them...
Donna Kirchstetter
September 11, 2006
Miss you Jerry, it soesn't get easier.
kassy zaitz
September 11, 2006
here another year goes by and your still on our minds.
Kassy zaitz
August 22, 2006
Just wanted you to know your still on our minds always.
We miss you.
Donna Kirchstetter
May 27, 2006
Happy Birthday Jerry,
Sorry I'm late.
Miss you as always.
Love you.
Donna Kirchstetter
September 10, 2005
Can't believe it's been 4 years. I still cannot think about you without crying. You were so sweet and good. You had love in your heart for everyone. I hope you knew how much I love you. I miss the way I felt when you were in the world. I don't think I'll ever feel that way again.
Donna
Pat Buckley
September 12, 2004
Three Years!And yet it seems like yesterday. Love Patty
kassy zaitz
September 11, 2004
On the 3rd anniversary of this tragic event, I want to say your still in my thoughts and in my heart, and will be forever. Your family misses you terribly.
Donna
September 11, 2004
It's been three years and now I only think of you about 1,000 times a day. I miss you.
Love,
Donna
Donna O'Leary-Kirchstetter
May 26, 2004
Thinking of you today.
Each year doesn't get easier.
I miss you more each day.
Sherhonda Ginn
September 15, 2003
On 9-11-03 my home town of Lubbock, Tx paid tribute to all victims of 9-11-01. In a large park we erected a flag for each person our country lost in that horrible tragedy. After 5 days the flags were sold with a certificate containing the name of a victim of 9-11. The funds raised from the flag sales are going into a scholarship fund for nursing students. The name on my certificate was Gerald O'Leary. I looked on the website because I wanted to know more about this person. I cannot imagine what you, his family, have gone through. I just wanted you to know that Gerald is not forgotten. I will treasure my flag and keep you all in my prayers. God bless you all!
Lj
September 12, 2003
We are still thinking about you and you will always be in our heart. Gob bless you
Donna
September 11, 2003
Another year has gone by and it's still as fresh as yesterday. I can hear your voice and see your smile. Your son is already so much like you it's scary, even the same jokes. We miss you so much. The void is unfillable.
I hope you know how many lives your life touched and how you made all of us better people just because you were you, a wonderful, happy and loving man.
I miss you Jerry.
Love,
Donna
Mark
September 10, 2003
I just wanted to express my deepest condolences to Jerry's family, and remind you that Jerry's life will always be remembered. He will never be overlooked.
Patty Buckley
June 3, 2003
Years may go by, but you will always be in our hearts.
Donna
May 26, 2003
This is your second birthday away from us.
I miss you and think about you every day.
Laurajean Mcparland
October 28, 2002
I know we never met but I am a cousin (Buckley side)I just wanted to let you know you guys are always thought about. Love L.J and Daughter Brianna
Kassy Zaitz (Mudge)
September 28, 2002
Even tho we have never met Jerry made us family. I just had a birthday on the 26th and wanted to wish Michael a Happy Birthday. Even tho Jerry is not there in person to be with you he is and always will be in spirits. You are all in my thoughts every day!
Kassy
Julie O'Leary
September 19, 2002
I did not know Gerald or his family, but as I sat watching the memorial service in New York waiting to hear my friend's name I heard his name announced. As a fellow O'Leary, I wanted to express my deepest sympathy to his family and friends. I'm sure he is watching over you all from heaven.
Patricia Buckley
September 18, 2002
This site was brought to my attenion two weeks ago, it is beautiful! I know we don't see each other as often as we should, but please know you are in our thoughts and prays every day.We will never forget Jerry. How could we, he is in our hearts. Happy Birthday Michael from all your cousins in Florida. Love,
Patty
Brenden Buckley
September 11, 2002
There hasnt been a day that has gone by that I have not thougt of Jerry since 9-11. I think of him and all my family members every day, and thats the best thing that has come from all of this. I hope everyone spends more time with the ones they love because we never now when they will leave us. May God bless all who have lost someone.
Brian O'Leary
September 11, 2002
To the family of Gerald O'Leary on the anniversary of your loss, an Irish Blessing:
May the road rise to meet you,
The wind be e'er at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until you meet Gerald again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Kim Mudge
September 11, 2002
I know we have not met, but you are my cousin, and my heart goes out to you and your son. I wrote this for you I hope it helps a little.
Look into,
his eyes so wide.
And hold that little boy,
with all your might.
Tell him you love him,
show him you care.
And let him know,
his dad will always be there.
Because his father is watching,
with ANGEL EYES.
And he will always be there,
in BOTH your lives.
Thomas Garry
September 11, 2002
Jerry , I know you were destined to be a great father. The birth of your son Michael changed your life. You looked forward to all the time you were to spend with your new born son. It's one of the last things I ever heard you say . I wish I could speak to you again. There is so much I wish I could say. The last night we all got together at Donovan's for dinner means so much to me. We spoke as if we were my long lost brothers that night. We went our seperate ways after marriage but cherished our meetings whenever they occurred afterwards. Your phone call to me one night assured that. I thought something was wrong when I first heard your voice on the phone but you just wanted to keep in touch . God Bless You Jerry . You will never be forgotten.
Joyce and Albert Franceschina
September 6, 2002
To Gerald O'Leary's Family - Our family will always remember Gerry as a friend to our boys growing up in Maspeth and a great son, brother, husband and father. Our hearts are just full of memories of fun, love and affection to a special human being created for the happiness of all who knew him. Happy Anniversary in Heaven, Gerry. Love, The Franceschinas
Kathy McGahan
August 19, 2002
Dear Mary Jean,
So many times since 9/11 you have been on my mind and in my prayers. Pat and I were so sorry to hear about Jerry and your brother. I remember you as such a happy pleasant fun person and the thought that such sorrow has come to you breaks my heart. Please know that Pat and I and my family are thinking of you and praying that you and your son and your family all get through this somehow. Stay strong for your son and we'll keep you in all our prayers.
Love, Kathy & Pat McGahan
(From AJ's)
Doug Chisholm
July 8, 2002
I did not know Jerry, but was browsing through this site and came across his profile. My heart goes out to the O'Leary family. I actually share the same birthday with Michael (Sept 28) and will keep him in my prayers each time I turn the page on another year. God bless America and God bless the O'Leary family. I hope to meet Jerry someday.
Donna
May 26, 2002
Happy Birthday, Jerry.
I miss you more every day.
Angie Campbell
May 7, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the family and friends that you left behind on 9/11/01. Rest in his loving peace forever more.
Donna O'Leary-Kirchstetter
April 29, 2002
Jerry was a loving husband, proud father, wonderful son, brother and friend.
He had a way about him that always put you at ease. Everyone that was lucky enough to know him, knew a soft-spoken man with a great sense of humor.
Jerry loved his life. He loved his wife and his son. His family was always a very important part of his life, even as a child, he was always concerned for his Mom and sisters, our father died at a young age, so he was proud to be the man and we were proud of him.
We miss you!
Thank you Jerry for being my brother.
Thank you Jerry for being my friend.
An old friend(Maspeth, NY
March 22, 2002
I met Jerry through an old boyfriend of mine. I attended MaryJean's graduation party where Jerry cooked for the occasion. GREAT people and lots' of fun. MaryJean I'm so sorry for your loss of Jerry and your brother. Stay strong. They would want that.
March 18, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN...GERALD OLEARY AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS... STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.PATRICK GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Rosemarie McDonough
January 11, 2002
To the O'Leary Family:
I did not know Jerry personally. I worked with his sister Karen many years ago. I was deeply saddened when I recently heard that Jerry was a victim in the September 11th WTC attack. I had a cousin and friend that was also killed on that terrible day and, although it has affected me on a different level, I truly know the pain that your family has suffered.
Know that they are up there looking down on us. Be strong. My prayers are with you.
Teresa Jahn
December 17, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Elaine O'Leary
December 13, 2001
We were privileged to see Jerry and Mary Jean at the O'Leary Family Reunion in New York three months before September 11. Jerry told us how much he was enjoying his new job and his wonderful family. We will cherish that time together and grieve collectively with our family and our country. We miss him!
A friend
December 11, 2001
I worked with Jerry when he as a chef at A.J's a long time ago. You are going to be missed
Patrick O'Leary
October 1, 2001
I didn't know anyone personally who passed in the collapese of the towers. But know that someone with the same surname, and their family, was affected by this tragedy brings it closer to home than it was before. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. O'Leary and his family.
Showing 1 - 65 of 65 results
Make a Donation
in Gerald O'Leary's name
How to support Gerald 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gerald O'Leary's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored