As a first-generation Irish American, Jerry was born on August 19th, 1933 in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn to Edward and Mary Heffernan. He had two brothers, William (deceased) and Edward. He split his time between Breezy Point, NY and Stuart, FL. He is survived by the love of his life of 65 years, Nancy. He was a devoted father of five: Jerry (Cathy), Patti (Tim), Donna (Tom), Teresa, and Michelle (Michael). Beloved Poppa to Shannon, Alicia (Jon), Kevin, Kyle (Araceli), CJ, Jaclyn, Thomas, Lauren, Allyson, Shawn, Brian, Erin, and Kelli. An endearing great-grandfather to Nolan, Grayson, and Isaac.
After completing high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corp from 1952 to 1955. He continued his lifelong love of service to his community by serving as Deputy Chief of the Breezy Point Volunteer Fire Department. In 1959, he began his career with the FDNY and worked his way up to becoming Captain until he retired in 1993. In addition to being a fireman, he wore many hats. He officiated for the Rockaway Point Men’s Softball League and Pop-Warner Football League. He was the local Breezy plumber, St. Thomas More CYO President, and the president of the Miles Grant Men’s Golf Association. His time was spent with family, golfing with friends, or riding his bike around town.
The visitation will be held at Aycock Funeral Home in Stuart, Florida on Saturday, April 17th, 2021 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. The funeral mass will be at 1:00pm on Sunday, April 18th, 2021 at St. Christopher’s Church in Hobe Sound, Florida.
A memorial celebration mass will be held in Breezy Point at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Miles Grant Philanthropic Fund, Attn: Betty Weed 5101 SE Miles Grant Road Stuart, FL 34997
