HAMPSTEAD — It is with great sadness that the family of Gerald D Bessey announce his passing on October 14, 2024.
Gerald, or ‘Jerry’ as he was called by his friends and loved ones, was the youngest of four sons, born January 15, 1943. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lillian Bessey; brothers, Charles Bessey, Alan Bessey, Roland Bessey, and son-in-law Thomas Wallerstein.
Jerry was a family man to his core. He met his wife of 58 years Patricia (nee Clancy) at 22. They had a long and joyous life together. He leaves behind his wife Patricia and daughters, Cassandra Wallerstein and Laurel Porcelli (Francis). Later in life, his grandchildren, Matthew, Alexandra, and Waverly, were his greatest joy. He was also blessed with many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He attended Camden High School in NJ, where he excelled in history and the sciences. He then went on to Rutgers University, and graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Economics, while an active Reservist in the United States Army.
His love of physics and engineering allowed him to pursue a successful career in electrical engineering and sales. A self-made man, he was the proud founder and owner of PPI Systems for over three decades, retiring at 72. A self taught gourmet cook, he loved preparing family meals on Sunday while listening to classical music. After his retirement, he moved to his vacation home in Loveladies, Long Beach Island, NJ, eventually settling in Hampstead, NC.
Jerry was a voracious reader of historical and philosophical works. He had a passion for the operas of Richard Wagner, Celtic music, and European sports cars. An avid traveler, he enjoyed his time in Europe and Asia, and exploring the various beaches of Mexico, while watching the sunset with his wife. He could often be found quietly listening to PBS and NPR in the evenings. Jerry was a daily runner, loved animals, history, art, and aeronautics. A man of more formal dress, Jerry never wore a pair of jeans in his life. After his retirement, Jerry served as an usher at All Saints Catholic Church in Hampstead, NC and was a member of Azalea Coast Amateur Radio Club, call letters KM4TKF.
He will be profoundly missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, genuine smile and peaceful spirit will live on in the many lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, The family request donations be made to the building fund of All Saints Catholic Church in Hampstead, NC.
A ceremony to celebrate Jerry’s life will be on December 12, 2024 at 11:00 am All Saints Church 18737 US-17, Hampstead, NC 28443, reception to follow at Harbour Village Yacht Club.
We think about you always, we talk about you still.
You have never been forgotten, and you never will.
We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain.
To walk and guide us through our lives,
until we meet again…
