Mr. Gerald "Gerry" Louis Sassone

Mr. Gerald “Gerry” Louis Sassone, 86, passed away on May 22, 2026. Born March 24, 1940, in Richmond, California, Gerry was a longtime educator whose life reflected steady thoughtfulness, selfless devotion to others, and a quiet ability to inspire those around him. He lived most of his life in Antioch, California but, for the past ten years, he was a resident of Cumming, Georgia and Duluth, Georgia.

Gerry was a proud teacher with the Antioch United School District in Antioch, California, where he enjoyed teaching art, math, and also served as a coach of track and field, wrestling, and cross country at Antioch Junior High. In both classroom and community, he consistently placed others first—most notably by teaching Prospects night school for students who worked during the day to support their families, offering them not only instruction, but dignity, patience, and encouragement. In these acts of service, Gerry’s care for people was evident, and his example left a lasting impression.

Beyond his work, Gerry found joy on the golf course and was an avid golfer. He looked forward to his weekly golf game with a large group of fellow teachers each Saturday. This group also took special trips each year to well-known golf courses in and around the state of California (including Pebble Beach). One especially cherished moment was scoring a hole in one during one of these golf outings. His compassion also extended to the vulnerable, and he was known to have a heart for stray animals and wildlife, feeding many strays on his daily walks throughout his neighborhood.

Gerry is survived by his wife of 58 years, LouAnne Sassone; his daughters, Cheryl Sassone, Nicole Hood (Rashad), and Gabrielle Mills (Damon); his grandchildren, Brianna Vidales (Lorenzo), Shelby Heskett, Lauren Mills, Riley Sneathern (Payton), Joshua Mills, Jackson Mills, and Isabelle Mills; and his great-grandchildren, Ivor and Ronan.

No services are planned at this time for Gerry.

Those wishing to honor his memory may consider a donation to their local animal shelter, humane society, or the ASPCA.

South Forsyth Memorial Chapel is honored to serve the Sassone Family.