Gerald Desmond

Age 78, of Monterey, Tennessee, formerly of Mount Morris, died Monday, September 9, 2019, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center in Cookeville, Tennessee. A funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm, Saturday, September 21, 2019, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mount Morris. Pastor Kevin Dixson to officiate, with burial at Flint Memorial Park. Gerald’s family will be present at the funeral home to receive friends on Friday, from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm, and again on Saturday, from 10:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to The American Red Cross, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Donations may be made through Gerald’s memorial page at www.martinfuneralhome.com, or envelopes are available at the funeral home. Gerald was born July 14, 1941, in Flint, the son of Mr. and Mrs. James and Gladys Irene (Van Paris) Desmond. On March 18, 1967, Gerald married Karen Lee Galat. Their union lasted for 45 years until Karen’s death in 2012. Educated locally, Gerald graduated from the Kersley Schools. Gerald went to work for General Motors. He was employed by GM for over 40 years, until his retirement in 2000. He was an active member of the UAW Local # 599 and the Golden Wing Club. Gerald loved to help others. During his life, he donated over 47 and a half gallons of blood to the American Red Cross. He also served others through his involvement in Operation Care (C.B. Group). Gerald moved to Tennesee in 2014, to be closer to his daughter Tamara. He loved being among the mountains and kayaking. When he was not enjoying God’s beauty, he could be found carving walking sticks, making canes, and lamps. Left to cherish his memory are daughter, Tamara I. Desmond; sons: Christopher Alan Desmond, and James Galat, and wife, Debbie Desmond; grandchildren: Roy Desmond Roach, Rychel Lynn Roach, Kaylee Elizabeth Ann Desmond, Jamie Lee Ann Desmond, Baylee Dean, Ciara Joleen Desmond, and Joshua Joseph Truitt Desmond; great-granddaughter, Annastasia Desmond; brother, John James and wife, Jean Desmond; sister-in-law, Kay Kehller. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Karen; brother, Andy Kehller, and beloved dog Lexi.