Jerry Matiz

Jerry was born Saturday May 07,1966 in the U.S Naval Hosp Annapolis MD. He was diagnosed with Down Syndrome when he was 6 months old, at that time the family was informed that his life expectancy would not exceed 21 years . He was the Grandson of Cristobal and Apolinar Polita Matiz, who adopted him in January 1968 when he was 1 1/2 years of age.

As a toddler he would impersonate entertainer Tom Jones and later Michael Jackson. He was blessed with a variety of talents, dance ,his love of music and art He participated in the Special Olympics as a runner and swimmer. He enjoyed family gatherings and celebrated his birthday every Friday. He was employed with Opportunity Builders (OBI) . For the past 15 years he was cared for by his Aunt, Sister, Mother Gloria Newman and her husband Rick. Jerry resided with Bello Machre where he was lovingly cared for until his passing due to Dementia on Friday September 24, 2021.

He is survived by his siblings, Cristobal (Isabel) Matiz, Ramon Matiz, Judith Conway, Nina (Donald) Kover, Joanne Seeders, Mary Matiz (birth mother), Pilar (Mark) Jones, Gloria (Rick) Newman. Melissa Wilson. His Nephew Travis (Kendra) Phelix, Niece Melanie (Jordan) La Chance, numerous cousins, extended family members, and the many friends he met throughout his life.

Jerry had a passion for helping others in need.