Geraldine Cole

Geraldine Kennedy Cole

A native of San Francisco, passed away on January 14, 2015 in Carmel Valley. Born to Gerald D. and Helen Weber Kennedy on September 19, 1927. She was a direct descendant of early California pioneer families. Her great-grandfather Captain Charles Weber was the founder of Stockton. Gerry was the youngest of the four Kennedy sisters: Peggy Cahill, Katherine Cookson and Moira Holden.

Gerry attended Katherine Delmar Burke School, Dominican Convent and graduated from UC Berkeley ?49. At Cal, she met her beloved husband of 59 years, Jerry Cole, who predeceased her in 2010. Gerry was a loving mother to Jeremy, Christopher (Wendy), Carol (David Bassing) and Sarah (Brendan) Adams. She treasured her grandchildren: Jamie, Rosara, Jesse, Brian, Tristan, Miles, Brendan and Kira. She was both a friend and a loving aunt to her nine nieces and nephews.

Gerry loved books and libraries, her family, horses and dogs. In addition to the remarkable collection of fine books which she and Jerry built together, Gerry was a collector in her own right, principally of the work of British engraver and printer Thomas Bewick. Together with Jerry, they loved traveling while exploring the world of antiquarian books. Gerry was a woman of great character, elegance and dry humor. She wove her diverse worlds into one, which was best enjoyed at table, with good friends, lively conversation, delicious food and wine. Whether at their home of 52 years on Sixth Avenue or in the Santa Cruz Mountains, friends and family gathered for many happy celebrations prepared by Gerry.

She was an enthusiastic volunteer for her children?s schools, Junior League, the Gleeson Library, St. Ignatius Church and St. Anthony?s Dining room.

Gerry was a longtime member of The Roxbourghe Club, Grolier Club, Book Club of California, Friends of the Bancroft Library and the Town and Country Club.

The family expresses deep gratitude to Jesus Martinez and the caring staff at Carmel Valley Manor.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 24 at 10am at St. Ignatius Church, 650 Parker Ave, San Francisco. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to That Man May See, 10 Koret Way, Box 0352, San Francisco, CA 94143 or St. Anthony Foundation, 150 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102.