JERRY Q. MCGEE

JERRY MCGEE Obituary

REDDING - Jerry McGee, 78, passed away at his residence after a long illness on May 14th, 2007 surrounded by his wife and children.

Jerry was born on November 20, 1928 in Turlock, CA to Anderson and Evelyn McGee. Jerry and his family moved to Redding in 1931 and have been lifelong members of our community.

Jerry's love of Radio began as a child with his building of radios at home and interviews of neighborhood friends and family. This included radio shows in High School, the popular Market Street Record Parties and KRDG's Jerry's Jumpin Jukebox. This ultimately led Jerry into a partnership with Gene Hill, where in 1981 they started the first automated FM Radio Station in Northern Calif KSHA.

From the age of 13 Jerry was also fascinated with the film industry. He started working at the age of 14 as a projectionist; running movies at the Redding Theater. Jerry worked at the Starlight Drive Inn, where he met his wife Eulalia in 1955 and were married in 1959. Jerry's 39 year career at a projectionist ended at UA Movies III which was the first automated Multi-Plex Theatre in Redding, to start KSHA.

Jerry ended his radio career in November 2006 at the age of 78, when a large Radio Corporation took over control of six Radio stations. Jerry's love of Radio and
Entertainment never ceased and his legendary sense of Humor was with him till the end.

Jerry served in active combat duty during the Korean War in the US Army from 1950-1952. He was also a member IATSE-International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and Moving Picture Machine Operators, Redding Mixed Local #739.

Throughout Jerry's 50 year career in Radio, Jerry has left behind many loving friends and co-workers. We cannot express enough gratitude for their kindness and support.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Eulalia, of 47 years, five children, sons Jerry McGee Jr. of Rialto, Patrick McGee of Redding, daughters Bridget and Larry Rose, Elizabeth McGee and Stephanie & Frank Acevedo all of Redding. Sister Norma Kennedy of St. Joseph, MO, Ten grandchildren; Rachel and Keith Rose, Micheal, Torrea and Jered Snow, Jeffrey and Megan Duarte, Sara McGee, Zachary and Celia Acevedo. Along with many loving in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Monday May 21, 2007 from 2-5 p.m. at Allen & Dahls on Eureka Way.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday May 22nd at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Redding at 11 a.m. Followed by a reception at the Parish Hall. Private Family Burial on May 23rd at the Veteran's Cemetery in Igo.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Mercy Hospice in Redding.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Redding Record Searchlight on May 18, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for JERRY MCGEE

8 Entries

George Tharalson

May 24, 2007

I can only echo the thoughts written by others. Jerry truly was an inspiration, one whom those of us that worked with him, will never forget. While we all had our own jobs to do, it was great when we would sit around the lunch table and listen to Jerry tell stories about the old days of Redding radio. As some of us have moved on to other areas, we still remember the icons of where we were before. While Jerry is no longer with us, the memories of that wonderful voice, and his impecable sense of humor and quick wit will live on with those of us who had the honor and privilege of working with him.

robert seago

May 22, 2007

My family co-workers and I extend our deepest sympathy at the loss of this icon in local music. I grew up listening to Jerry and kept him on many nights when I drove home from work. I met Jerry several months ago during his hospitalization and the family were truly an inspiration. Talking to them was like talking to friends as we discussed Jerry's remarkable career, and we at Mercy were all saddened by his death. Take solace in knowing Jerry is in heaven spinning those golden oldies and smiling at all of us, so let this knowledge place a smile on your face each day.

David Nelson

May 22, 2007

I’m very sorry to hear of your loss. Jerry was a wonderful individual with a fabulous since of humor. He will be missed by all who have met him, but most especially by his family.
I wish you all the very best. God Bless.

Bob Belongie

May 21, 2007

I grew up listening to Jumpin Jerry on KRDG and it's safe to say he had a huge influence on my choice of career. He will be sorely missed. Until we meet again, my friend.

JULIE HUNT

May 21, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jenny Jones

May 19, 2007

Jerry was an amazing man-a person who could always make you smile. He was a mentor to so many of us in radio. I feel so blessed to have worked with him. To his family, my prayers are with you.

Kelly Frost

May 18, 2007

Jerry will be greatly missed. The Radio industry lost a legend. His family and friends lost one as well.

Peter and Billie Wright

May 18, 2007

The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.

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