Gerald Lee Wiggins

Gerald Lee Wiggins was born on May 4, 1939 to the proud parents, Lee and Mary Wiggins. Gerald affectionately known as "Buddy" departed this life on July 17, 2022. He is rejoicing in heaven with his parents, Lee and Mary; brothers, Robert and Donald; grandson, Cameron; nephew, Harold and niece, Cassaundra.

Gerald is survived by his loving family and his long time love, Evelyn Gold of Merced; sons, Kenny Roberts Wiggins of San Francisco, Ca., Gregory Wiggins (Nicole) of Merced, Ca., Donte Gold (Lori) of Atlanta, Ga., Stefon Gold (Felicia) of Castro Valley, Ca. His daughters, Deniece Wiggins-Kelly (Keith) of Atwater, Ca. and Vernicky Gold (Eloyd) of Los Banos, Ca and Alicia Stewart (Maurice) of Merced, Ca. His loving sisters, Norma Smith of Sacramento, Ca, Barbara McClain of Sacramento, Ca., Janet Bluford of Pico Rivera, Ca. and Audrey Wiggins of Atwater, Ca. Brother, Orville Wiggins of Sacramento, Ca. and brother in-law, Stephen Bluford of Pico Rivera, Ca. Also surviving Gerald are 24 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Gerald had a special love for music early in life. He was one of the first Blacks to be in the Merced Marching 100 Band. He learned to play several instruments, but the drums were his passion where he excelled and was one of the original members of the Merced Blue Notes. He traveled the world and got a few gigs opening for Sonny Bono and Cher and then opening for the Carol Burnett Show to name a few. After years of traveling, Gerald decided to put traveling on hold and play with local bands to raise his family. Gerald was a die hard Raiders, Rams and Lakers fan. He loved sports and loved to celebrate any event. He was always the life of the party. Gerald left a lasting impression on anyone who met him.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratfordevansfunerals.com for the Wiggins family.