Jerry Bernard Pilet

Jerry Benard Pilet, age 79, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, after a stroke. Born on December 6, 1945, in New Orleans, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His life was a testament to hard work, generosity, and a heart full of laughter.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene Fulton Pilet; his children, Jane Chantel Pilet, Michael Joseph Pilet (Kim Cooper Pilet), and Jennifer Michelle Ray (Joseph Ray, Jr.); his cherished grandchildren, Sean Cooper Pilet, Evelia Grace Ray, Harrison Cooper Pilet, and Alexander Christian Ray; and his great-grandson, Ronan Alexander Pilet. Two of six siblings survive Jerry: Brenda Teresa Pilet Wagner (Bo Wagner) and Peggy Pilet Anderson (Nevel Anderson). He is also survived by numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces, all of whom were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering love.

Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Sean Benard Pilet; his parents, Lester William Pilet, Sr., and Marie Madeline Gerdes Pilet; and by four siblings: Lester William Pilet, Jr. (Lallie Elma Huibers), James Anthony Pilet, Sr. (Joyce Elma Couret), John Warren Pilet, Sr. (Beverly Thompson), and Marie Ann Pilet (Herman Hoff). He shared a deep bond with his brothers and sisters and loved reminiscing about their parents and childhood adventures.

For 29 years, Jerry worked at Martin Marietta and Lockheed Martin, where coworkers admired him for his technical skill, dedication, and quick wit. He later poured his talents into his own businesses-AC Appliance and A. Appliance Clinic-where he became known not just for fixing things, but for honesty. Often, Jerry responded to a senior's home only to discover that an appliance was not truly broken. In those cases, Jerry would fix whatever issue he found without charging the customer. That integrity ensured client loyalty throughout his years of business.

In the CB radio community of the 1970s and 1980s, Jerry was affectionately known as "Mr. Fix It." That nickname captured more than his mechanical know-how-it reflected his willingness to help anyone in need, always with a smile and a joke at the ready.

Jerry had a gift for making people laugh. His sense of humor was sharp, playful, and ever-present. Whether he was teasing a grandchild, cracking a joke with colleagues, or sharing a funny story from his younger days, he brought joy and lightness to every room he entered.

He also had a deep love for music. From the soulful rhythms of New Orleans artists to the smooth swing of Big Band, the timeless grooves of Motown, and the catchy charm of 1950s pop, music was woven into the fabric of his life. It brought him great joy.

A proud and active member of the St. Bernard Parish Civil Defense League for many years, Jerry was always ready to serve his community with courage and dedication.

Visitation will be in the cathedral at 9:00 am, followed by a funeral Mass at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Biloxi, Mississippi, on Saturday, October 11, at 10:00 am. Interment will be held at a later date in a private ceremony. Family, friends, and coworkers from Lockheed Martin are invited to celebrate his life.

Jerry's life was a blessing to all who knew him. His legacy of love, laughter, and music will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

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