Gerard Cherizard

August 5, 1945 - July 27, 2024

Gerard Cherizard, affectionately known as “Jerry,” passed away peacefully on July 27, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 78. Born on August 5, 1945, in Ouanaminthe, Haiti, Jerry was the beloved son of Mathurine Destinor Guerrier and Arcange Cherizard, both of whom preceded him in death.

Jerry married the love of his life, Philomene (Michel) Cherizard, on December 6, 1975, and together they had five children: Jimmy Cherizard, Jenny Cleveland (Troy), Cherley Cherizard, Jeff Cherizard, and Stanley Cherizard (Chelsea). He was also the grandfather of Nathan D. Cherizard, Noah Chung Cherizard (preceded in death), Khristie M. Cherizard, and Chloe M. Cherizard, and the great-grandfather of Amia R. Cherizard.

In March of 1976, Jerry emigrated from Ouanaminthe, Haiti, to Belle Glade, Florida. Notably, he and his cousin Julien “Charlie” Cherizard (preceded in death) were the first Haitians to immigrate there. After traveling back and forth between the two countries, his wife joined him, and they continued to grow their family. In 1992, the family relocated from Belle Glade and settled in West Palm Beach.

As the only child of his parents, Jerry found a deep sense of family through his faith in Jehovah’s organization, where he gained many spiritual brothers and sisters. He was a dedicated carpenter and mason, known for his hard work, craftsmanship, and commitment to his trade.

Jerry will be remembered for his craftsmanship, kindness, and the lasting impact he had on everyone who knew him. After retiring, he enjoyed preaching the gospel and gardening, growing a variety of fruits like papaya and mangoes and vegetables. Some of his produce, such as scotch bonnet peppers, jute leaves, and sour oranges, could be found in local Haitian restaurants, adding a special touch to the community’s cuisine. Unfortunately, due to a severe decline in health and contracting COVID in January of 2021, he was unable to enjoy these passions as much in recent years. He endured suffering in the past few years and looked forward to resting peacefully until he could witness Jehovah God’s promise in Revelation 21:3,4.

Jerry leaves behind a host of cousins, along with many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory forever in their hearts.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will take place on August 9, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at Dorsey - E. Earl Smith Funeral Home, located at 3041 Kirk Rd, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33461.

Zoom link to join virtually:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8419102638?pwd=E1hUO4eXPjT5mxQyfEQUdas2P7nlvy.1