Earl Jeremiah Cronin Jr.

Jerry entered eternal rest, carried by the saints and angels to meet his Heavenly Father on August 6, 2021, at the age of 83. Always a gentleman, he was the best husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend. Jerry was truly loved by his family, friends and all who had the privilege to know him. His sense of humor was infectious. He will be sorely missed. Jerry was born June 6, 1938, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, but made Baton Rouge home in 1961. Jerry understood hard work, starting at the age of 12 as a newspaper delivery boy then as a service station attendant and "bag boy" at his hometown grocery store. In 1956, he graduated from St. Aloysius High School in Vicksburg and attended Mississippi State University. He served his country as Private First Class in the US Army, being honorably discharged in 1960. Afterwards, he worked as an x-ray technician at Mercy Hospital (Vicksburg), Slidell Memorial Hospital and Baton Rouge General Hospital. From June 1966 to June 1986, Jerry worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield and was instrumental in writing the first long term insurance contract for the State of Louisiana. In June 1986, he began another career as General Manager of Risk Management Incorporated with 35 years of service until his retirement in June 2021. Jerry was not only a successful businessman; he was also a humble, honorable and reliable man who formed many friendships within the industry. Jerry was extremely dedicated to every venture he undertook. Having been taught by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, he learned and lived his Catholic faith starting out as an altar boy in elementary and high school. Later in life, Jerry served in the Kairos Prison Ministry and Charismatic Renewal, as well as a Catechism teacher, Eucharistic Minister, Lector and Adorer of the Blessed Sacrament. He was also a past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council # 9016. Jerry was also a caring and loving family man. He is survived by his loving, faithful and devoted wife Rose Marie Millet Cronin. He was blessed with six wonderful children: Three from his first marriage to Laura Bell Cronin Thibodeaux: Kevin Cronin (Marion), Patrick Cronin (Tonya), Dale Cronin (Mary). Three children from his second marriage to Gwindola Miller Cronin: John Cronin (Brittany), Matthew Cronin, Erin Cronin Fenton (Matt). Eight grandchildren: Taylor Cronin Bush (Ian), Connor Cronin, Christopher Cronin, Camille Cronin, Tyler Cronin, Josie Fenton, L.B. Fenton and Kane Cronin. Brother John Welsch Cronin (McIver) and sister Jan Cronin Jackson (Mike). Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and members of the Millet Family, who loved him dearly. Preceded in death by his parents: Earl J. Cronin, Sr. & Milloree Walker Cronin, mother & father-in-law Earl & Rose Mary Millet. Because he realized the importance of proper training and research in the medical field, in keeping with his thoughtful and unselfish nature, Jerry donated his body to science. His family is comforted knowing that others will be helped by his generous gift. The celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church at 11441 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA with visitation from 9:00 am until 11:00 am, with a memorial Mass to follow immediately thereafter. Blessing and burial of his ashes will be at a later date. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff in the Cardiac ICU at Our Lady of the Lake for their loving care and attention. Memorial donations may be made to St. Thomas More Catholic Church, or a charity of your choice. Face masks will be required to enter church.