Geraldine Douglas

Geraldine “Gerré” Douglas (née Young), 94, was born to the union of Samuel L. and Ruby (Williams) Young, on January 11, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois. She passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, at her Washington, D.C. home.

Gerré graduated from DuSable High School in Chicago, Illinois, and then pursued higher education at the University of Illinois from 1948 to 1952 before earning her certification as a medical technician from the Cook County School of Medical Technology in 1953. After relocating to Washington, DC with her family in 1967, she worked for multiple employers, including Federally Employed Women and Georgetown University Hospital, as an administrative assistant, and later an accountant.

Gerré had a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly Broadway musicals and the opera, and was a fan of Barry Manilow, the original Star Trek series and all things Disney. She participated in numerous marches, walks, and rallies as an ardent supporter of the Women’s Rights Movement and a 39-year breast cancer survivor.

She found joy in tap-dancing, visiting museums, galleries, and tea rooms, always eager to immerse herself in culture and history. A passionate reader, she delighted in romance novels that transported her to different times and places. Her love for travel was matched only by her joy in sharing the sights of Washington, D.C. with visitors.

Above all else, Gerré was her family’s biggest cheerleader—always offering encouragement and celebrating their achievements with pride and joy.

Gerré will be lovingly remembered by her family – Leon, her husband of 70-years; daughter, Kathy; sons, Jonathan and Mark; daughters-in-law Monique (Jonathan) and Susan (Mark); son-in-law Richard (Kathy); and two granddaughters, Alyssa and Madison (Jonathan and Monique). She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Lionel, Gilmore and Samuel Jr.; and sisters, Audrey, Lorraine and Marion.

Those who knew and loved Gerré will remember her as a woman full of life—outgoing, inquisitive, and deeply cherished by all who had the pleasure of meeting her. She will be dearly and forever missed.

Donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen foundation.