Gerard Joseph Ravia, Jr.

Gerard "Jerry" Joseph Ravia, Jr, Age 76, of San Tan Valley, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2024, held by his loving wife, Teresa. Born on April 30, 1948, Jerry dedicated his life to service.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Jerry's father left when he was only 2, and he was raised by a wonderful, single mother who stayed active in the Catholic Church. He attended Catholic and public schools in the Cleveland area, and never lacked for family even though he was an only child. He was constantly surrounded by numerous cousins, aunts and uncles, as his mother was one of 13 children. Jerry proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1967, including serving in the Vietnam War. When he requested to be stationed in Columbus, Ohio, the Air Force instead sent him to Columbus, Mississippi. His commitment to his country was unwavering, and he was a source of inspiration to all who knew him. After his military service, he worked in the travel industry on military bases, eventually having his own travel agency. His career continued in auto sales and then into banking/mortgages. After retirement, he continued to work as a shuttle driver.

He met his current wife, Teresa, on the original online dating platform - AOL, where they fell in love before actually meeting in person. He moved from Albuquerque to Mesa, Arizona and married Teresa a year later at Love of Christ Lutheran Church. Their Pastor wasn't sure the marriage would last due to how they met, but they proved him wrong, staying married almost 26 years, with Jerry passing away just shy of their anniversary. They enjoyed many memorable vacations, including several cruises which became their favorite way of travel. He loved the Dallas Cowboys - turning Teresa into a fan, and she in turn helped him become a fan of Arizona State University football, where they became season ticket holders. He was able to return to Cleveland, Ohio, where he reconnected with his cousins, most of whom still live in the area. Teresa fell in love with all of them and enjoyed the stories and pictures of his childhood. Jerry also introduced Teresa to miniatures schnauzers, which they currently have 4 that are helping Teresa deal with the loss of the love of her life.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Teresa Ravia, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, children Michael Ravia and Jennifer Coon, two stepchildren, Alan Sickler and Jennifer Culver, and seven grandchildren.

Jerry was hard working, dedicated to his family and his faith in God, full of fun, practical jokes and will be missed by everyone who knew him. He promised Teresa that once he reached Heaven, he would send her signs that he is watching over her, which have been thru songs that just happen to be playing as she turns on the radio.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on November 2, 2024, 10:00 AM, at Love of Christ Lutheran Church, 1525 N Power Road, Mesa, Arizona. Reception immediately following.