Jeffrey Paul Hager

Jeffrey Paul Hager, fondly known as Jeff to his friends and family, peacefully passed away at the age of 71 at his home in Ripon, California, on May 28, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. Born on August 3, 1953, in Modesto, California, Jeff was the cherished son of Verrill and Betty Hager, who preceded him in death, along with his beloved sister, Sheila Disney. Jeff attended Thomas Downey High School, proudly graduating in 1971, before pursuing higher education at Modesto Junior College, where he earned an Associate in Science degree. Jeff continued his academic journey at Idaho State University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree. In 1981, Jeff successfully passed the pharmacy board and dedicated 44 years to his work at the same company known as Payless, Thrifty Drug, and eventually Rite Aid, where he was known for his compassionate care and dedication to customers. On October 1, 1988, Jeff married the love of his life, Mary GeRue, beginning a marriage filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support. Known affectionately as "Jeff the Chef" by his family after retirement, Jeff poured his love into cooking wonderful meals for his wife and son, Will. Jeff's passion was music, and he expressed it beautifully through his saxophone. From an early age, Jeff found joy sharing his love of music, becoming lead alto saxophonist with the Knight Sounds, a nonprofit band providing scholarships to local high school students. For over three decades, Jeff's melodious tunes touched countless lives, including many special performances at retirement homes that brought joy to residents and caregivers alike. Outside music, Jeff adopted numerous hobbies and interests. He had encyclopedic sports knowledge, enthusiastically following baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and golf, always able to recite every player's name from memory. Jeff thoroughly enjoyed planning every last detail of family trips, savoring memorable vacations with those he loved dearly. Known for his quick wit and boundless humor, his unforgettable "dad jokes" made everyone groan and smile. Jeff leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unconditional love. Remembering Jeff means carrying forward his kindness, honesty, and genuine care for others. Jeff reminded his family daily how deeply they were loved, never missing a chance to kiss his wife good morning and good night. His memory will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched so genuinely. A memorial service honoring Jeff's life will be held at Franklin and Downs in Modesto, California, on Monday, June 16, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at a later date.