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Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary and Cemetery - Scottsdale

6500 E. Bell Road

Scottsdale, Arizona

Gerard Cullity Obituary

Gerard James (Gerry) Cullity, age 51 and artistic director of Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, passed away March 10, 2005. He is survived by his wife Laurie and mother Joan Thompson of Scottsdale; son Ian of Las Vegas, NV; and brother Paul, niece Jessica, and nephews Paul and Timothy-all of New Hampshire. Visitation for family and friends will be 3pm-8pm, Friday, March 18 at Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary, 6500 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, 480-991-5800. Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 1pm Saturday, March 19 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 7655 E. Main St., Scottsdale. A reception follows at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. Gerry, along with his wife Laurie and mother Joan, founded Desert Stages Theatre in 1995. He pioneered its growth, turning this children's theater into an award-winning, multi-faceted performing arts center in downtown Scottsdale. He has touched many lives with his artistic talents-both on stage and behind the scenes. An accomplished director, actor, musician and lyricist, Gerry leaves a legacy of wonderful original musicals and original scores to adapted stories. His popular The Butterfly's Day, The Ugly Duckling, Charlotte's Web, Alice in Wonderland, In The Kingdom of Clouds, Cinderella and many more will continue to live on in the hearts of actors and audience members. He was also the creative genius behind several multi-media touring productions that address a wide range of health issues-from tobacco to end-of-life care. His body of work has been honored locally and nationally with the President's Daily Point of Light Award; Arts Advocate of the Year Award; and the distinguished Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Living the Dream Award. Gerry always believed in the power of theatre to create change. He called it a "moment"-- an instant in time when an actor truly connects with his audience. It is a moment that is special; a moment that empowers; a moment that changes lives. In his lifetime, Gerry has created many moments, touched many hearts, enriched many lives by his gifts. And he will live on in each of us-all we need to do is look inside our hearts. That's the place he'll always be.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 13, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Gerard Cullity

Not sure what to say?





Charles M. Chrystol

March 10, 2024

Rest in peace, my friend. You are well remembered.

Tjaz

Liz Gengle

January 25, 2024

Gerry, Almost 20 years after your passing, you are still touching the lives of young people. I want to thank you for this show that I was able to put on with my students. Their enthusiasm and investment in the story only confirmed that your work was truly remarkable and life changing. I am sharing the video of our show here in case anyone happens upon it who loved your work and will be comforted in knowing that it lives on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIhAvJGD45o

Tjaz Chrystol

March 11, 2023

Eighteen years & you're still on my mind. I [ray the family is well.

Gene Canfield

March 7, 2022

It's seventeen years, Gerry and I still often think about you; the laughs, and the dreams we both shared. You never gave up, built your company in Scottsdale, became an institution, and left a lasting legacy. Congratulations on a life well lived.

Tjaz Chrystol

March 12, 2021

Joan & Ian: Jerry's still in my memories.

Paul Huebl

April 3, 2006

Dear Laurie and Joan:



Gerry was one in a million. He touched countless lives in the most positive ways including mine. I will never forget Gerry.



I posted a overdue trubute and video to Gerry on my blog.

Terry Hamilton

March 10, 2006

It's been a year now since Jerry's passing and it seems like just a few weeks have passed. Our lives move by so fast it is worthwhile to reflect on the past and remember those who have touched our lives.



I think of Jerry often, even today. There are memories of shows and just sitting and talking about shows to do or people to consider for a part. Jokes and laughter, sad times and tears, joyful singing and serious work. Watching Jerry and Laurie dancing in the theater after a rehersal. Watching Miss Joan smile while I walk through the door. Seeing Ian get into character and listening to him talk to his friends. So many memories flood through my mind today as my eyes begin to tear up.



I miss the man more now than I did last year. I miss his gentle spirit and his love for his work. There were the moments of intense emotions but it was only because he had his vision and he wanted someone to see it too. He was intense in that regard. Not everyone agreed but he would not back down. There were bad feelings sometimes but Jerry was fast to forgive and even faster in asking for forgiveness.



He has touched my life in many ways and he continues to live in my heart and mind. I carry his lessons and spirit with me.

Heather McAlpine (Pracko)

February 16, 2006

Gerry you gave me my first real theatre experience and let me blossom through the parts helping me with every step. It's still a shock that this has happened. It's too unreal. I still remember walking to the theatre from school and seeing your bright face when I walked into the theatre. I will miss you Gerry, forever.



Laurie, Joan, and Ian. I give my love and prayers to you as this happened and they are still with you.

Moe Rios

September 24, 2005

Laurie, how sorry I am to hear about Gerry. He was a wonderfull person. One of the best things I did in my life was to buy "The Actors Cafe Theater" in NJ from him. It has given me a liftime gift of theater and all I learned from him. We will always hold him in our hearts.



Love: Moe,Jen(the original Ugly Duckling) and Chris

Tom Derise

August 16, 2005

I played in a band with Gerry (guitar) and his brother Paul (drums)in the early '70's. We practiced in their basement on Williams Ave in Jersey City. I can't remember who introduced me to them. We played a lot of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and we were pretty good. We had a keyboard player and a girl singer, too. Their Mom always made us feel welcome there.



I went to grammar school with the Thompson girls (Debbie and Corrine), so when they did their "Brady Bunch" thing, I was happy for all of them.



Gerry was a good-looking guy, a good singer, and a great guitar player. He always talked about joining the FBI, and he was very fond of Natalie Wood.



My deepest sympathies to the Cullitys and the Thompsons. Paul, email me - it's been a while!



Sincerly,



Tom Derise

Jessica Frieling

June 29, 2005

I miss you Gerry. I miss you alot. Sometimes it's easy, and sometimes it's not. But I think about you a lot. I guess that's all.



I love you

Lisa Jones

April 11, 2005

Even now-after leaving Arizona 5 years ago, whenever I get on stage I always think of Gerry and Desert Stages. I always think "thank you" for giving me my start. You were truly a wonderful talented man. You will be missed.

My deepest sympathy to Laurie, Ian and Joan.

Lisa, Libby and Ian Jones

Dean Anderson

April 5, 2005

Working with Gerry was always a fine theatrical experience. I remember fondly many hours of hard work, laughter, and deep love of theater. Gerry, Laurie, Joan, and Ian remain in my thoughts and prayers. -- "Father Jack"

Don & Hazel Acquavella

April 3, 2005

In our minds and hearts,"We will together forever."



Don,Hazel,Donna,Elizabeth & Mary Grace Acquavella

Tjaz & Gwen Chrystol

March 28, 2005

Dear Laurie, Joan, and Ian:

I write this with shock and sadness. Gerry was an artist and Art is forever. He will be missed.

Death is always too soon and the dead are always too young.

Gene Canfield

March 26, 2005

I will miss you buddy. Thank you for being my friend.

Marian Roland

March 24, 2005

How can this be true? Gerry was part of us in the '80's when we were performing as the Hoboken Civic Theatre; and so was Joan. Tony De Vito, our Artistic Director, and I are heartbroken over this news. Gerry will remain in our prayers and conversation for a long, long time. To Joan, Laurie and Ian we send our heartfelt condolences.

Walker Family

March 23, 2005

Caring, sharing, mentoring and above all, Gerry gave each child a chance to explore their inner self through acting. He could see what others couldn't. Gerry was special to Kobe and therefore made him special to us. His legacy will remain throughout our lives.

Cynthia Sjogren-Anderson

March 22, 2005

Laurie, Joan, Ian: We are so stunned by the loss of Gerry and know what you must be feeling is 1000 times worse. I can't begin to tell you what Desert Stages has meant to our family.Gerry has touched so many lifes. We feel so privilged to have been a part of the theatre for the past 10 yrs. You shown through your example what love, dreams, hard work can accomplish. So many lives touched by these life lessons. So many lifes changed because someone believed in them and encouraged them to be the best they could be by looking into themselves. We love Desert Stages and know Gerry will live on in all of us. We only have to look into our hearts. Again, we are so sorry and are here for you.

Rhea Courtney

March 21, 2005

Gerry,



We thought when we came to Arizona 5 years ago our theatre days were over. Little did we know that sitting in the audience watching "Charlie Brown" that passion would be reignited with such intensity. We always knew that Becca would need to find a stage to put her love of performing to use, but never did we think that Desert Stages would become her touchstone. Gerry, your knowledge and mentoring of ALL our children will forever be remembered. This is evident in their desire to carry on your great work.

As for Mickey and myself, what can I say except "thank you" for being a fellow actor, teacher, and most importantly a friend. I also hope you know that you have touched Matthew's life as well. I'm sorry you won't get to see what your influence has had on him, but I'm sure from whatever director's chair you're in now, you'll know.

Laurie, Joan and Ian-Words aren't great comfort now, but know you are a part of our lives forever.



Rhea, Mickey, Becca and Matt Courtney

David Short

March 19, 2005

The Arizonia Theater Community has lost one of its greatest mentors. Although I have never met Gerry, I have had the pleasure of working with people who have performed in productions at Dessert Stages, and they had nothing but good things to report about him. Everyone in Arizona Theater will miss Gerry greatly.



David J. Short

Managing Director

The JD Players & Theatre Beyond The Stage

Realizing a dream.

March 19, 2005

The DeVere Family

March 19, 2005

Lori, Joan and Ian



We would like to extend our condolences and deepest sympathy for your loss. Being new to Desert Stages we haven’t had the opportunity to get to know everyone as much as we would have liked to but from the times we saw or spoke to Gerry it was obvious he truly loved what he was doing and encouraged all the children to follow their dreams. He will be greatly missed by all but his hopes and dreams will continue on through all those he has inspired through the years. It was an honor to have met him.

Maureen and Frank Lasko

March 18, 2005

Dear Laurie and Joan,

We were all so stunned and saddened to hear about Gerry!! We are so sorry. He has left many, many wonderful memories for Frank and I by his casting Lauren and Brittany in many of his first productions.You were all wonderful to us and we thank you. We hope you continue....he left a lot to be carried on. God Bless you and again, we are so sorry.

Megan Aiello (Kane)

March 18, 2005

Laurie, Joan and Ian-

I am deeply saddened to hear of Gerry's passing. He touched so many, and gave so much of himself to others. His legacy will live on, in each of the young lives he's influenced. I am incredibly grateful for my experiences with him, and will miss him very much. My heart goes out to you, and your families. God bless you.

With love, and prayers,

Megan Aiello

Cassidy Mills

March 18, 2005

Gerry, I miss you and you will forever be in my heart! Thank you for those wonderful 5 years that I had with you! I know all of us kids miss you! love forever, Cassidy Mills

Ann Rob Allison and Christina Whyte

March 18, 2005

Gerry:



We are blessed to have known you. Your work will continue through the lives you have touched. We only hope and pray we can meet up again in the "Kingdom of Clouds."



Of course, we will miss you; but I'm sure we'll see you in many of the on-going productions and in the actors you have inspired.



Miss Laurie, Joan, and Ian -- We can't imagine the pain and sorrow. We only hope that it will get easier over time.



... how fitting that Butterfly's Day is in production as we reflect on the words he spoke during the new theater dedication regarding the reason he wrote Butterfly's Day...



Love, the Whyte Family

Ugly Duckling

Beth Rose

March 18, 2005

Dearest Laurie,Joan and Ian. Words can never express the gratitude we have for Gerry and all of you. The Cullitys have forever impacted our lives in an amazing way. Thank-you for loving our Kimberly. The Roses

Lauren and Todd Mills

March 18, 2005

We would like to send our deepest sympathy to the family. I know my father-in-law had a deep friendship with Gerry and we were so saddened to hear of his passing.

Charles (Chuck) Pilon

March 18, 2005

I am so saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and stage mentor, Gerry. He immediately welcomed me into the Desert Stages family and always made me feel welcome and wanted. My experiences with Gerry on the stage are memories of a life time. He was such an inspiration and motivating man. He can never be forgotten because of the many lives he touched by his professionalism, direction, and friendship. His work will live on in every production that any of us will ever perform in the future. No greater love has man than to give his life for others. Gerry truly put his life on the line for all others. His family will be in my daily prayers. God bless his family and Gerry, you have blessed us. God love you.

Kate Adelmann

March 17, 2005

Gerry has truly touched the lives of many including myself. My deepest sympathy is with the family during this time. May god be with you and just know that he is in a happier place most likely directing a new sort of show. And to Gerry I think when I say this I speak for all, we love you.

Corrie and KK King

March 17, 2005

Gerry has effected our lives so much. He made us feel right at home in the theatre. Gerry not only taught us about acting-but also about life. We will miss him very much.

Rick & Samantha Voth

March 17, 2005

We are fortunate that Gerry touched the lives of our daughters and taught them to believe in their talents and to pursue their dreams. Desert Stages will live forever in his spirit and in our commitment to its success.

Doug, Sue, Caitlin and Lindsey Stegemoller

March 17, 2005

Gerry,

We will be forever grateful for the experience of Desert Stages and your magic. My girls have truely found their passion. We want to thank you for your passion and dedication to all the Children whose lives you touched and especially ours. You will be missed everyday.



Joan, Ian and Laurie,

We are so very sorry for your loss. How nice that his music will live on forever.

"There's always a tomorrow after every darkest night."

Lisa Barton

March 17, 2005

"look into our hearts....that's a place he'll always be"



Gerry was another father for me....to be totally honest it was a love hate relationship. His legacy will live on in all of the youth he has changed along the way. He always told us "love the art in yourself not yourself in the art" We will continue.



To Joan, Miss Laurie, and Ian: another part of my theater family...you have always been there for me and my family so I am here for you. Gerry never watched his shows, always the director...but the world is a stage and he finally gets to be in the audiance.

Lots of love

Lisa Barton

Alex Eisenberg

March 17, 2005

Gerry, You blessed all of our hearts. I still remember when I was 5 and you were so nice and casted me in your show you taught me so many things I will always remember you and you will always be in my heart I love you and thank you for everything espesically beliving in me and bringing out my talent



Ian, Laurie and Joan

I am so so sorry

Terry Hamilton

March 17, 2005

I was shocked to learn of Gerry's passing. I have always looked forward to my time at Desert Stages as a time to learn as well as perform. Gerry had a unique ability to bring out the best in everyone, both from an acting viewpoint as well as a personal one.



Gerry's presence in the acting community will be missed immensely and I can only hope that his work continues in the theater that he loved and gave so much to.



I will miss the conversations as well as the gentleness of the man. I know that he has gone on to a better place and will soon be starting another production. I can only hope that I am cast when my time comes.



With love and prayers to the family,



Terry

Bransen Gates

March 17, 2005

No one can replace someone with real vision about theatre and all the encouragments a director would tell an actor. Gerry has all the talent, all the expierience and all the encouragment. He is my hero!



Love,

Bransen Gates

Joyce and Joe Porter

March 17, 2005

Lori, Joan and Ian,



We are so sorry! It's been a long time since we've talked and I'm sorry it's under these circumstances. I will always remember the original "Stages" here in Jersey and our Murder Mystery plays. You guys were family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I'm sure Gerry is smiling down on us this St. Patty's Day.



Joyce and Joe

Steve Sizer

March 17, 2005

Laurie -



My deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kelley Kregle

March 17, 2005

What I found remarkable about Gerry was his dedication to giving ALL children the opportunity to be on stage--not just the talented ones. What a boon for children with shyness or self-esteem issues! The experiences he allowed these children to have will enrich their lives forever more. God bless him, Laurie, Joan and Ian

Julie Wessel

March 17, 2005

Ian and Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Gerry has touched and influenced many lives, and he will forever be in their hearts.

Joseph (Joejoe) Roberts

March 16, 2005

Every once and a while someone comes into our lives and changes us in a way we never knew they could. Gerry has been a father to me in the past 9 years teaching me so much in life, theater, and family. He was one of the most important people in my life as I looked up to him and envied him in so many ways. He would always have a story for every occasion and they would envelop anyone who stopped and listened. He will be greatly missed and its a huge blow to my heart. My love and prayers go out to Laurie, Joan, and Ian.

Barbara Wix

March 16, 2005

Dear Laurie, Ian and Joan,

We were all blessed to have our lives touched by Gerry. He was such an inspiration because he was so alive and excited about his passion. A lot of people have said this but he truly will live on because his passion was contagious. He took my girls and made them self confident and excited about performing in just one show. Thank you for sharing him with us and we are thinking of you in your time of loss.

sheri mills

March 16, 2005

525,600 minutes

525,000 journeys to a plan

525,600 minutes

How do you measure the life of a "wonderful" man? In laughter, in music, in acting in smiles, in teaching, in giving in hardship, in trials, but most of all..in the joy you gave so many kids..We will miss you and our thoughts and prayers are with Joan, Ian, Miss Laurie and all your family. God Bless.

Marlin, Sheri and Cassidy

Liz Simmons

March 16, 2005

What can I say....Gerry gave me my passion. if it weren't for him i would not know who I am today and I would not have as much confidence in myself as I do today. He gave us music that will stay with me forever and he enriched the lives of so many young people. Although we left on a bad note I hope he knows how much he meant to me and how much i love him.

Laurie, Joan, Ian, you all meant so much to me also. You helped me on my path and my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Look into our hearts thats the place he'll always be.

We all love you and miss you Gerry.



Liz Simmons

Kathie Julian

March 16, 2005

Gerry, I hardly know what to say. This week has been such a shock to all of us. We are so lost without you. You have truely been a inspiration to all of us. My daughter Brittany so wanted to be an actress but of course I didn't know exactly how to go about helping her. At 4 years old she informed us that she was going to audition for a play (Kingdom of the Clouds) and that was almost 3 years ago. Desert Stages became a magnet for all of us, Brittany, Vance and myself. We seemed happiest when we were there with everyone. It was so magical that with you in our hearts we will continue on, as I think you would have wanted. We will be there to support and encourage your beautiful wife Laurie and amazing mom Joan to the next level. I have seen what you have accomplished with so many young children and that has inspired me to step up to the plate and do whatever I can to help make DST even better than ever in your memory. You will be missed so very much. Love, Kathie, Vance and Brittany Julian



Miss Laurie and Joan, I feel like you have become family to me even though I know I do not know you all that well. I just want you to know how very loved and supported you are. Our family will be here for you in any way we can. May God bless you with peace. All my love, good thoughts and prayers are with you now and forever. Kathie

Tom, Andrea, Kara Delk, Seratte

March 16, 2005

A true blessing from God, Gerry graciously shared his life, love and song. He brought joy to so many. A mentor, he taught our children the virtue of hard work and discipline, and the value of friendship, teamwork, and a smile. Gerry will always be one of life’s most precious memories. Words cannot express our gratitude, he gave us so much. Thank you Gerry, we miss you.



Laurie, Joan, and Ian



We selfishly grieve the loss of Gerry’s earthly presence, while at the same time rejoice in knowing that he is in a better place, with our Lord and Savior. Until we see him again we will carry his treasured memory in our hearts. Laurie, Joan, and Ian, we love you and our prayers are with you.



1Thes 4:14. "God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus".

Cassie Davis

March 16, 2005

There is not much that I can say that has not already been said. Truth is, Gerry was a second father to me. He taught me so much...not only about acting and singing, but about life. He will forever hold a place in my heart. Thank you Gerry, for helping me to become the woman I am today. I owe you so much; my talent, my voice, my determination and strong will...and most important...self-confidence...it is because you believed in me that I believed in myself. Three times you cast me as an "Angel"...thanks for being mine. I love you.



Laurie, Joan & Ian...I love all of you so much and you have also been so important to me over the past 9 years. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I am here if you need ANYTHING. Know you are loved.

Danielle Condie

March 16, 2005

Miss Laurie, Joan and Ian,

My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of grief. Desert Stages was the first time i experienced acting in a real theater setting and i loved every minute of it. My experience there will always hold a special place in my memory and heart as well as the many friends i made all thanks to Gerry and his family. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Danielle Condie

"Stages Alumni 1998-2000:)"

Kathy DeSanto

March 16, 2005

Words cannot express the grief my family and I feel over the loss of Gerry Cullity. My daughter was a quiet, very shy 4 year old when she was cast in her first play. 5 years and 6 plays later, she is a confident and strong young lady with the courage to conquer the world. I give that credit 100% to Gerry and Laurie Cullity. We will never, ever forget this incredible, talented man and the difference he has made in the lives of 1,000's will live on forever. When we look inside our heart, there he'll be.

Angie and Hannah Taylor

March 16, 2005

Gerry,

Thank you for your passion for theatre and for all the children's lives you have impacted. You have encouraged Hannah to be herself and to cultivate the gifts that God has placed in her. We will never forget you.



To Laurie, Ian, and Joan,



It has been a huge blessing to us to be a part of DST. Thank you for providing a safe, positive place where our kids can grow.

Our prayers are with you. God give you comfort and peace.



I feel at home at DST.It won't ever be the same without you.



Hannah

Karla Lodge

March 16, 2005

We only met a couple times, but your kind and inspiring words were invaluable! The warm spirit you radiated made an impression which words cannot fully describe. May the family find comfort and strength in your legacy.

Elisaba Dow

March 16, 2005

Gerry will be missed by all the families and children whose lives he touched. My daughter Phoebe can be a handful and Gerry never lost sight of the wonderful little girl she is.

Deb Prokopek

March 16, 2005

With a heavy heart I write...



Gerry's life touched ours for only 6 years but, for our Daughter Devon a lifetime.

Devon thought of him as a mentor, friend and hero. He is sorely missed by her.

There are so few people who can effect so many in such a positive way. What a wonderful legacy he has left in the children at Desert Stages.

I will be eternally greatful for his influence on our Devon. She is forever changed.

Our thoughts are with his family.

The Prokopek Family

audrey

March 16, 2005

The loss of Gerry Cullity is unbelievable. Gerry Cullity will be missed forever by all the children he loved. For some, Gerry was part of their journey for ten years as they learned and grew from him, for others, he was only with them for a short time yet he will live on in their hearts forever. The children will never forget what they have learned from him and it will stay with them for a lifetime. He taught them to do their very best, to work hard, to be nice to each other and he inspired them to love the theatre. As a parent, I am eternally grateful that we found Gerry and Desert Stages and made it part of our lives. So much of what our daughter has become is from the lessons she has learned from Gerry and from the amazingly positive influence he has had on her. He will live on in the hearts of the Desert Stages actors and their families forever.

Anna, Tanner and Payton Maguire

March 15, 2005

Our deepest sympathy to Laurie, Joan, Ian, and to all of the Desert Stages families. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Gerry will always be with us, as it is because of him that Tanner is where he is now, living his "moment".

Mary Crone

March 15, 2005

My smile is gone without you, Gerry!

Thank you for sharing yourself and your family (Laurie, Joan, and Ian, too) with all of our families.

You knew so much and taught us so well! I will never forget you.

Caroline Crone



Daddy Warbucks' appearance at the Royal Lahaina Luau in Maui will be remembered forever. How proud you were of that recognition that you so rightfully deserved! The breathtaking ocean views and the white sand beaches were your inspiration. Gerry, you will continue to be an inspiration to all of us!

Freddy Crone



Thank you for giving EVERY child an opportunity to be a star!

Mary Crone and Family

Melissa and Kevin Sellers (Ortiz)

March 15, 2005

Gerry,

Thank you for the countless hours of dedication you gave to inspire Olivia to be the best actor and person that she can be. She truly is......... because you were. You will be greatly missed. We will continue to tell her to look inside her heart and you will be there!



Miss Laurie, Joan, and Ian- our thoughts and countless prayers will forever be with you.

Olivia Ortiz

March 15, 2005

Gerry, I love you and I miss you so much, but I know you are in a better place. Thank you for all the great times for five years, I enjoyed them. I know someday I will see you again.



To Miss Laurie, Miss Joan, and Ian I will pray for you and Gerry every night.

Love,

Olivia Ortiz

Ashley & Sarah (Mark & Jennifer) Kline

March 15, 2005

Gerry,

You have made such an impact on so many people. You looked for the best in other people and gave them the courage to pursue their dreams. Please know that your memory will live on and the values you've instilled in others will continue to blossom and be passed on. You've lived a life rich in relationships and accomplished truly amazing things.



The twins, Ashley and Sarah, will always remember you. You taught them that confidence can be a good thing. You helped them grow and channel their "energy" in a positive direction. You had such an impact on their lives and for that we are touched and grateful.



Our condolences go out to your family and the many people who were fortunate to have known you. May the angels watch over you...

The Bloom's

March 15, 2005

Gerry,



Your generousity and unconditional love has touched our lives and will live forever in our hearts. It's seldom to leave a legacy behind that grows in the hearts of so many. Your spirit and kindness will be deeply missed.

The Bloom's. Andrew, Babs,Austin, Alexandra, Samantha,and Michael

Tony Alba

March 15, 2005

Our hearts are broken over Gerry's passing. Gerry touched our family in a way none of us will ever forget. He opened a whole new world for our daughter through the theatre, and we will never forget him and the difference he made in our daughter's life.

Tianna Tagami

March 15, 2005

Laurie, Joan, and Ian -

I am truly sorry your loss. Gerry and Desert Stages welcomed me into my first theater experience in Arizona and I will always be grateful for that.



My sympathies and appreciation -

Tianna

Lori, Kim and Bonnie Kobriger --Thomas

March 15, 2005

As a family, we have been blessed to be a part of the magic of Desert Stages created by Gerry, Joan, Laurie and Ian. We can only give thanks through our tears for how you all have enriched our lives in a short 2 1/2 years. We will now share Gerry with countless angels in heaven and he will guide us forever. Laurie, Joan and Ian--we are here to help you continue the magic!

Lovingly, Lori, Kim and Bonnie

carrie oliver

March 15, 2005

Gerry was such an inspiration to so many youth and adults alike. He was a man of determination and built such a wonderful program and he will be missed by so many people. How amazing for him to be able to pass on such a gift to so many. I send my prayers to his family and my love and support to Ian, such a wonderful man himself. Ian, his legacy lives on in you. Let your light shine for all to see.

Audrey Johnson

March 15, 2005

Gerry,

I cannot describe the loss we feel. You have been an insiration to Haley, Van & I. You have been a great friend and we have all learned so much from you. Your works have brought us great joy over the years. I will miss our talks. We will miss you and you will live in our hearts forever.



Laurie, Joan & Ian,

We are so sorry for your loss. Gerry means so much to all of us. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Please let us know whatever we can do and how we can help...that's what a friend can do....We love you all.

Jessica Frieling

March 15, 2005

I dunno what to say. I mean I love him like a father and I always will. He was, and will still remain to me a friend, and mentor, and a father like figure to me. I will hold him and the family in my heart forever. As I alwasy knew they would be...



I love you

Jess

The Gill Family

March 15, 2005

Gerry,



Your dream will live on through the countless lives you have enriched with your teaching, friendship, loyalty and compassion. You are missed immensely.



Laurie, Joan and Ian,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May love, support and great memories get you through this difficult time.



"Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean." David Searles



.

Heidi Starks

March 14, 2005

Gerry was a friend, mentor, and inspiration to so many, who has helped launch several careers, and many more to come, as the young generation of Desert Stages youth is sure to prove. His theater provides a home and a family for so many young and aspiring actors. I feel blessed to have been given my start at Desert Stages, and to have been one of the lucky who were touched and inspired by the life of Gerry Cullity. Much love to Laurie and family.

Heidi and the Starks girls

Jay Mills

March 14, 2005

Will always cherish those moments we worked together, especially in "Da" and "Shenandoah". It was Gerry who made those moments unforgettable. More importantly he was a friend; always kind and generous.

Barbara and I send our love and condolences to Laurie, Joan and Ian. God Bless.



Jay and Barbara

Claudia & Tim Metz

March 14, 2005

Our love and prayers go out to Laurie, Ian and Joan at this time of sorrow. What a wonderful legacy Gerry leaves -- to have followed his dream of running a successful theater company and to have touched so many lives in the process. We will miss you, Gerry. Keep the faith, Laurie, and know that you are loved and missed.

Roseann Ruggiero

March 14, 2005

For those of us who were blessed to share in Gerry's life and work in theater in New Jersey and those of us who witnessed the great love that he shared with Laurie, I would like to thank all of those people lucky enough to have gotten to know him in Arizona and to thank you for making our friends so welcome and happy when they headed west. We shall all miss him and have all been made better by knowing him. Our hearts are with Laurie, Joan and Ian always.

Victoria Nardone

March 14, 2005

To my dear friend Laurie and her family, I offer my deepest sympathies and prayers for your peace. Gerry's star will continue to burn bright as long as we all remember. Vicki

Wes Martin Executive Producer, The Shakespeare Theatre

March 14, 2005

On behalf of all of us at The Shakespeare Theatre, we wish to express our sincere condolences to Gerry's family, and everyone at Desert Stages. Gerry was a terrific guy and a great talent, and he will be greatly missed.

Keren Sper

March 14, 2005

From the short time I knew him, it was obvious what a valuable impact he made on people’s lives. My condolences for Laurie and the rest of the family.

Joanne Severance

March 14, 2005

Until you came into our lives we were just three people sharing a home but you and Desert Stages gave a purpose to our lives and made us a family. Thank you Gerry. You will live on in our hearts.

Barbara, Jeff & Anny Franklin

March 14, 2005

Your genius has been an inspiration to all of us who know your work. We will always treasure your friendship and the generous way you shared with us your passion for music and theatre. We will miss you, Gerry.

March 13, 2005

All of us at Creative Youth Theatre send our condolences to the family of Mr. Cullity.



Although I was not fortunate to meet you, I am thankful for the contributions you made to the arts community.



Paul Stout

Founder

Creative Youth Theatre

Brian Gilliland

March 13, 2005

You are the greatest director in the world. Love, Brian.

Dustin Loehr

March 13, 2005

Thank you for introducing me to acting. I was only 8 when I performed in Aladdin and then Beauty and the Beast. The experience has stayed with me all these years. I'm now a Jr. in High School and have acted in a total of 18 shows. I'm considering acting as my profession.

Kevin Alexander

March 13, 2005

The lives you have touched will keep your visions and dreams alive.

The Mercer's

March 13, 2005

With deepest sorrow.....



You will always be in our hearts...



The Mercer Family

The Dudley Family

March 13, 2005

Gerry touched too many lives to count. He touched all of ours through his music, talents, love of life and children. Gerry, this place took a hard loss, but heaven gained so much.



Cindy, Mike, Austen and April

kathie brokop

March 13, 2005

We will be praying for you Laurie, Ian and Joan. Thank you to you and Gerry for years of beautiful lessons and memories. Gerry will always have a special place in our hearts. with love, The brokop Girls

Showing 1 - 85 of 85 results

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