Mable J Gerald

Mable Jeanette Gerald was born on November 21, 1941, to Watkin Gerald Sr. and Mable Barnes Gerald in Mullins, South Carolina. She grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family and was known early on as the "Pearl Harbor baby" and the "Fox".

Jeanette attended Palmetto High School in Mullins. In 1962, she made the bold decision to move to New York City in search of better opportunities for herself. Her son, Nathan "Fullback" Gerald, remained in Mullins with family during that time. Jeanette worked as a CNA in a New York City nursing home for 40 years - a job she took seriously and carried out with commitment and consistency. After retiring in 2003, she returned home to Mullins.

Jeanette was someone who enjoyed life in her own way. She loved to travel, especially on cruises, and she had a real passion for antiques. She also loved sports - particularly basketball - and could talk players stats like it was second nature.

She was outspoken, direct, and never pretended to be anyone other than herself. She said what she meant, even when people didn't always like it. Those who knew her understood that her straightforward spirit was part of her charm, her humor, and her unmistable presence. If you ever met her you would never forget her.

Her faith was steady and personal. She was a lifelong member of St. Paul Baptist Church, read her Bible daily, and often reminded others, "Get your house in order, because Jesus is coming back."

Jeanette was a proud member of the Eastern Star and the Palmetto High School Alumni Association. She especially enjoyed creating souvenirs for alumni events, a role she held until her health declined.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her beloved son, Nathan "Fullback" Gerald, a loss that remained close to her heart. She is survived by her siblings Paul Gerald (Johnny Faye), Mary Gerald Brown (William), and David Gerald (Fannie); sisters-in-law Clara Gerald and Leila Gerald; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, including Rose Marie Holmes, and Mary Katherine Davis.

We thank Michael Wheeler for the steady, heartfelt care he gave her.

She is also preceded in death by her parents, Watkins Gerald Sr. and Mable Barnes Gerald, and siblings Watkins Gerald Jr., James Gerald, Walter Gerald, Wilbert Gerald, Edgar Gerald, Matthew Gerald Sr., Phyllis Crawford, Katie Gerald, and Cora Gerald.

Jeanette lived a full life - honest, independent, and true to herself. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.