Published May 8, 2020
SOMERVILLE — Gerard “Jerry” DeFranzo, 84, a resident of Somerville and formerly of Malden, died at Mass General Hospital in Boston on Saturday, May 2, 2020.
Gerard was born in Winthrop on October 18, 1935, one of five children of the late Michael DeFranzo and Isabel (Rinaldi) DeFranzo. An East Boston native, Jerry’s love of baseball originated in the ballparks of Eastie while playing for East Boston High. After graduating, he enlisted to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. Jerry’s love for his country and his fellow service members was an integral part of his life. Jerry enjoyed his work for the Commonwealth of Mass. as an Accountant for the Division of Employment Security where he worked for 35 years. After retiring in 1991, Jerry was blessed to spend more time with his family, the most precious people in his life.
Jerry was loved by everyone he knew him. His enthusiasm for life brought a smile or a laugh to everyone in the room. A lifelong baseball fan, Jerry’s love of the Red Sox was only matched by his lifelong admiration of the great Ted Williams. He forever rooted for the underdog quarterback and enjoyed sharing his love of sports with his family as he watched from the sidelines of his grandchildren’s games.
Growing up in East Boston, he held memories of visiting Revere Beach with his family close to his heart. In addition to sports, Jerry had a love for playing blackjack, roulette, and the slots at the casinos, including trips to Las Vegas, and many visits in New England. He also enjoyed trips to Disney World with his family, turning any time spent with his grandchildren into a special moment shared.
Jerry will be deeply and sorely missed, but his devotion to his family, and his sense of humor will carry on as his legacy.
Jerry was the beloved husband of Pamela (Rubin) DeFranzo with whom he shared 35 years of marriage. Devoted father of Darlene Cianci and her husband Paul of Groveland, Theresa DeFranzo and her husband Peter Chianca of Georgetown, and Thomas DeFranzo and his wife Robyn of Somerville. Cherished grandfather of Jake, Jackie, Ria, and Tim. Dear brother of Barbara Walsh and her late husband Edward of E. Boston, and the late Louis DeFranzo and his surviving wife Joan of Saugus, the late Celeste Mei, and the late Rocky DeFranzo. Caring brother-in-law of Cecelia Russo of Reading, Philip Rubin of Saugus, and Linda Rubin of E. Boston. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Services at this time will be for immediate family. A Celebration of Life will be announced when all may gather to remember and honor Jerry. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pine Street Inn, 444 Harrison Ave., Boston MA 02118 or to a charity of your choice. To send a message of condolence to the family, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
