Gerald R. Carson

Jerry Carson of Belmont passed away on Thursday September 25th at the age of 72 following complications related to cancer.

Jerry was born in Medford, MA on September 18th, 1953, to Phyllis and Jeremiah Carson. He was the oldest of 3 children.

Jerry was a graduate of Boston College and received his Masters from the University of Vermont. He worked as a cell biologist at Abbvie Pharmaceuticals for 23 years, where he contributed to the development of the drug Humira. While there he used his science and math skills to tutor local Worcester students on his lunch hour. Most recently he consulted with SparX Biopharmaceuticals enjoying the opportunity to continue his scientific work after retiring from his full time role.

In his retirement Jerry spent time learning to weld and creating welded art sculptures. He also embraced a new interest in cooking, making interesting and delicious meals that his whole family enjoyed. He volunteered at Wellesley Friends Meeting helping to run the First Day School (Sunday School) program, and he spent many years working in the youth programs at New England Yearly Meeting. He loved children and was a good natured, patient, kind, and fun presence everywhere he went. He was a Boston sports fan and loved a good Red Sox game.

Jerry had a notably strong moral compass, always doing the right thing even if that was difficult. He was a quiet presence and yet he also had an ever present sense of humor, making jokes at just the right moment, quoting a line from a movie as a punchline, and providing levity whenever needed.

Most importantly Jerry was an incredible husband, dad, grandpa, and brother. He was devoted to his family. He provided unwavering love and support and was a steadfast presence under all circumstances. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. He soothed cranky babies, got on the floor to play, embraced pretend games, told stories and sang songs, and was the most gentle, kind, and loving grandparent.

Jerry is survived by his wife Marybeth Toomey, daughters Emily Carson and Gabrielle Carson, Grandchildren Ayla, Callen, and Hannah Batista, Lucy and Lila Dandeneau, sister Sharon Leitner, Brother Richard Carson, son-in-law's Sandy Batista, and Jim Dandeneau, as well an nieces nephews and beloved friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial meeting for worship will be held at Wellesley Friends Meeting on Saturday October 25th at 2:00 PM. Donations in Jerry's name may be made to the NEYM Youth Programs. Venmo: @NEYM-Quakers, or via mail: NEYM, 901 Pleasant St. Worcester, MA 01602