Geraldine S. Nettles

Geraldine "Jerry" Sygalas Nettles passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 2008, at Heritage Manor in Baton Rouge. Jerry was born in Baton Rouge on March 25, 1920, the second child of Frank Joseph and Katie Laird Sygalas. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Clinton Nettles; son, David Clinton Nettles; sister, Mildred Dees; and two grandchildren. Jerry was a lifelong member of First Christian Church and actively participated in her Sunday school class and women's group until her health declined. Many thanks to her church family, who assured that she was still able to participate in Communion each Sunday when she was no longer able to attend church and for the many cards, prayers and visits. Special thanks also to Jerry's niece, Dianne Linder, who gave so much of her time visiting and caring for Jerry during this last period of her life. Many thanks also to the wonderful staffs of Heritage Manor and Life Source Hospice who made Jerry's last year of life much more comfortable. Survivors include her sons, Robert Gerald Nettles, of Seabrook, Texas, and Edwin Kirk Nettles, of Baton Rouge; daughter, Cynthia Wilkinson and husband Rip, of Baton Rouge; sisters, Dorothy Patton, Katie Pierce, Elaine Ricks and Virginia Baronne, all of Baton Rouge, and Peggy Denbo, of Hot Springs Village; and brother, Frank Joseph Sygalas Jr., of Winnfield. She is also survived by six grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Viewing at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., on Friday, Feb. 15, was from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visiting resumes at First Christian Church, 8484 Old Hammond Highway, on Saturday from 9 a.m. until service at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Michael Karunas. Interment in Roselawn Cemetery. Happy Valentine's Day, Mama.