Jerry Schwartz Passed Away Today--Marych 25, 2024

Mar 25, 2024

Dear Friends of Jerry and Gloria,

I'm writing to let you know that Jerry passed away this morning around 8:00am. Gloria was at his side and he took his final breath and with that, became free from all the suffering he experienced. It's been a long and hard road.

There is grief that is anticipatory--a grief where we wait for what is about to happen. There is the grief as a witness to SEE what this disease has done. And there is the grief of the deep loss now in Jerry's passing. It's this deep loss that some of know when our loved ones are taken away--some too soon and all much loved. There are many adjustments; many times of the deep miss and the heart ache for the children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters and for Gloria. Our circle of love that we formed has been a great and tremendous encouragement--a way we could tangibly and specifically tell them that they are not alone in this. I know I speak for their family in expressing a deep sense of gratitude for your interest, care and donations in whatever form you've chosen to help. All are appreciated.

So little is known about the disease that Jerry had. PSP is a rare, terrible and merciless diagnosis. .It took years to obtain a diagnosis and more hard and dark years in the physical, emotional and relational loses that happened.

In their planning and conversation together, Jerry and Gloria wanted more research and study to happen to hopefully prevent another person from having this disease. So, Jerry's body will be used by scientist to study and learn and hopefully find a cure. Gloria told me today that she wants and needs some time and space to just process and find her way through all the care, decisions and grief. I know we all want to talk with her, but as you know, every conversation is an output of energy.

I've found that sending a card is a tangible and specific way of expressing love. Somehow, holding a card, rather than reading a text is tactile, physical and spiritual reminder of love and care. You can send her a card here:

Gloria Schwartz
2126 N Castle Court
Matthews, NC 28105

Of course, please do the same for Erin, Paul and Kacy. It's a great and deep loss for them. Do the same for the loved grandchildren. Their loss is immense as well.

Suffering has a way of leveling our lives and making us all equal and needy. In a time when so much discord and division is present, may we join our hearts and hands to surround this dear family. They will need our care and love in the days and years to come. Together, we can do what one person simply cannot do. In a time like this, we need one another--more now, than ever before.

Gloria has mentioned that a service will be planned at later date--later in the Spring. So, you can find out information on Caring Bridge of their Social Media pages. I'll update you here as well as I learn of more details.

As you can imagine, expenses will continue, so if you'd like to help, please do. All that we have given so far, has now been used in care giving payments for the past few months. Gloria's VENMO is set up, if you prefer to give that way: @gloria-Schwartz-7

Thank you for interest, care, compassion and mercy extended to their family.

Stephen W. Smith (Gloria's brother)

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