Geraldine Jeri J. Jones Mc Broom

Geraldine J. McBroom was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, on March 4, 1928. She was an orphan and was adopted into the Wiggins family. Only much later in her life was it confirmed that a young woman, who always maintained a presence in her life - Dr. Evelyn D. Sharpe - “Aunt Evelyn”, was indeed her birth mother.

At about age 25, Geraldine moved with her daughter to Upstate New York, to accept a position working for a wealthy family. To a certain extent, they became an extended family to the two of them.

Not settling, however, for working in a maid’s capacity for an extended time, Geraldine sought her dream of becoming a Practical Nurse. Disciplined study, while still working part time for that same family, and good work ethics, were rewarded with honors upon her graduation from Nursing School. She was immediately given a position at the Geneva General Hospital in Geneva New York, in the Pediatrics Ward, and worked there until 1968.

In 1965 she met a suave and debonair soldier, named Samuel H. McBroom, who was in the Army and was stationed at Sampson Air Force Base in Romulus, New York. They lived, loved, danced, and laughed, and were married on June 4, 1965, at Trinity Church in Geneva, New York.

During a military tour in Germany of 24 months, from 1968-1970, they traveled, lived life, and made many life-long friends. Geraldine, always active, served as the President of the “Kazabra Wives Club”, during most of that time.

Both returned to the United States to work for the VA Hospital in Canandaigua, NY. The McBrooms built and made a home in the suburbs of Geneva, New York. Again, instilled with gaining knowledge and placing a high value on learning and education, Geraldine studied and was successful in pursuing a degree to become a Registered Nurse, and held a Head Nurse position for many years at the VA Hospital.

As the wife of the first African-American, American Legion Commander at the Winnek Post 396 American Legion, in Geneva, New York, her life was full of meetings, organizing events, social gatherings, ladies’ luncheons, and participating in parades in nearby areas on special occasions. The things she really enjoyed because she loved being with people.

Upon retiring from their government jobs, they relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1998, to be closer to family in Las Vegas, California, and Arizona.

There are so many things that can be said about “Jeri”, as friends and acquaintances fondly know her. Friendly, empathetic, energetic; her compassionate nature would always shine through.

Jeri never met a stranger. Her, charm and warmth brought out the best in all those she touched around her. Jeri was a person who genuinely understood and cared for others, making powerful connections with those who knew and loved her. Her focus always being on peace and harmony.

Jeri made sure her friends were comfortable, well fed, and went out of her way to make sure their needs were met. Seen as a gracious giver, Jeri sometimes felt ill at ease when she was the one on the receiving end. She was generous in sharing her personal attributes, giving and helping those she knew and loved.

Jeri carried those traits of strength and courage and determination throughout her life, and imparted those values to her family.

Everyone whose lives she touched will dearly remember Geraldine J. McBroom.