Gerald A Marlette

Mr. Gerald Amber Marlette, known affectionately to friends and family as Jerry, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2024, at his residence in Lincolnton, Georgia. Born on Christmas Day in 1936, to Wayne and Augusta Panozzo Marlette in Detroit, Michigan, Jerry lived a life marked by kindness, courage, and a spirit of adventure. Mr. Marlette was raised in Sesser, Illinois by his grandmother where he spoke Italian until the first grade when he learned English.  Jerry was a proud graduate of Cody High School, Class of 1955. His dedication to service led him to join the Army Reserves in 1957, and subsequently, the U.S. Army in 1959. He served his country with distinction until his discharge as a sergeant in 1964, specializing in the Radio Signal Corps at Fort Gordon. After his military service, Jerry began a longstanding career with General Motors Company in 1966, where he worked diligently as a supervisor in quality control until his retirement in 1991. Shortly afterwards, he moved to Lincolnton. Outside of work, Jerry was a devoted family man and is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Parkman Marlette; his children, Janice (James) Reed of Dearing, GA,   Michele Puzio of Denton, FL, Tina (John) Eliuk of Linden, MI, Milton (Michelle) Bussey of Clarks Hill, SC and Dawn (Scott) Nieman of Linden, MI; his sister, Brenda Howard of Pinckney, MI, and nine grandchildren.  Along with his parents, Jerry was predeceased by his first wife, Virginia "Ginger" Reid Marlette, and his siblings, Gloria Harden, Marlene Jansen, and Dennis Marlette.As a Mason, Jerry was deeply involved in his community, embodying the brotherhood's values of fellowship and integrity. Jerry's zest for life was evident in his many interests and hobbies. An avid outdoorsman, he loved the lake and embraced every opportunity to go fishing and hunting. His competitive spirit shone brightly during card games, a pastime he greatly enjoyed. Jerry was also a fervent fan of the University of Michigan Wolverines and the Detroit Lions, his loyalty to his teams unwavering through triumphs and trials. Music held a special place in Jerry's heart, particularly the twang of bluegrass, which could often be heard resonating through the walls of his home. His love for music was just one of the many ways he connected with those around him, sharing melodies and creating memories. Jerry's life was one lived to the fullest, marked by the simple joys of laughter, love, and the great outdoors. His legacy is one of steadfastness, a life rich with experiences and relationships that will continue to inspire and comfort those he left behind. A funeral service is planned for Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First Assembly of God 350 May Avenue Lincolnton, with a visitation in the church sanctuary from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Michigan chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation online at: cff.org/chapters/Michigan-chapter.

Beggs Funeral Home, Lincolnton, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Gerald A. "Jerry" Marlette.