Jerry Richard Handwerker

Jerry Richard Handwerker left this earth on March 7, 2026 just as peacefully as he lived. He was born on October 16, 1955 in Memphis to John James "Jim" Handwerker and Geraldine "Jerry" (Sullivan) Handwerker as the seventh of ten children. He liked to think that his mother named him after herself because he was her favorite.

Jerry grew up in Whitehaven and attended Catholic schools in Memphis including St. Thomas Elementary, St. Joseph Elementary, and Bishop Byrne High School. After high school, he followed in his brother's footsteps and became a house painter. His steady hand, attention to detail, and work ethic served him for over 50 years as a painter.

One of ten children, he grew up in a lively household where the Handwerker brothers became somewhat (in)famous around Memphis for their antics. However, he also became known for doing anything for anyone with nothing ever expected in return. He remained a calm and steady presence in his family, and nothing made him happier than being part of such a large and loving family.

His garden and the outdoors were his happy place. He could turn the barest yard into a floral paradise, and he was never happier than when he was puttering around the garden. He also loved a good bonfire, a good Corona, and a good story.

Jerry also formed a special circle of friends in Springfield, Missouri, where he lived for the past seven years, who meant the world to him. At a little neighborhood bar, Gunny's Mill, where he spent time, he was affectionately known as "Uncle Jerry," and he was greeted that way every time he walked through the door. When he was battling cancer, those friends held a fundraiser to help with his treatments. One especially meaningful gift came from Corina Everhart, who arranged for Jerry to ride in a B-29 bomber. This was an experience he treasured deeply, especially since his own father had been a fighter pilot who flew B-29s during WWII. It became one of the greatest experiences of his life.

His daughter was truly his pride and joy. Kathryn Mary was his "Angel." He instilled in her a belief that she could do anything she put her mind to, and he was proud of her no matter what she did. She will carry his calm support and unconditional love with her for the rest of her life. He used to say he was the luckiest dad in the whole wide world, but she knows that she is the luckiest one.

His motto was "happy thoughts," a sentiment that he carried with him through years of cancer treatments. He fought a long battle with dignity and grace, and he was not afraid of the end. He knew he would be going home to see his family who passed before him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bobby Handwerker, sister Julie Bratton, brother-in-law Kevin Grauer, nephews Shea and Beau Grauer, and great-niece Chloe Grauer-Lea.

He is survived by his daughter, Kathryn Mary Handwerker, daughter-in-law Latoya Fortino, and grandson Nate Fortino. He is survived by sisters Gail Handwerker Grauer (Kevin) and Sister Mary Samuel Handwerker, brothers Tim Handwerker (Joanna), Michael Handwerker (Alicia), Danny Handwerker (Missy), Mark Handwerker, Phillip Handwerker (Betty), sister-in-law Benita Handwerker, numerous nieces and nephews and their families, cousins, and countless friends. He is also survived by stepsons Wayne and Jeff Logan and their families, and Gail Gilmore, his daughter and stepsons' mother. He was truly loved by everyone who knew him.

The family wishes to thank Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri for their exceptional care. Their kindness and compassion, especially in his final days, is greatly appreciated. The family is also deeply grateful for the love and support of Jerry's family, who helped care for him throughout his illness, especially his brother Michael and sister-in-law Alicia, as well as his sister-in-law Joanna Handwerker, whose guidance and clinical advocacy meant so much during his treatments.

A visitation will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 8151 Poplar Avenue, Germantown TN, 38138, on Friday March 27, 2026 at 10:00 am, with mass to follow at 11:00 am. A short reception will follow. A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Memphis Botanic Garden, in keeping with his love of plants, gardening, and natural beauty. https://membg.org/give/