Edward “Jerry” McGady, 75, of Jenkintown, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patricia, his five daughters and their spouses: Christina, Natalie Franklin (Jim), Emily, Elizabeth Altmeier (James), and Andrea. He is also survived by his ten grandchildren: Alex, Rachel, Richie, Gavin, Emma, Isabelle, Sarah, Luke, Benjamin, and Madilyn. Additionally, he leaves behind a sister (Maureen Kress-King) and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Originally from North Philadelphia, Jerry grew up as the youngest of 10 children. Though his father passed away when he was young, he was lovingly raised by his mother and many of his siblings.

Jerry graduated from Thomas Edison High School in 1967 and enlisted in the Army. Shortly after, he was deployed to Vietnam. After two years and a purple heart for his service, he returned home where he continued to pay loving homage to those lost every Memorial Day.

In 1969, Jerry married Patricia Elko and moved to Germantown to start a family. As his family continued to grow, they moved to the Northeast section of Philadelphia before settling in Jenkintown twenty years ago.

Most of Jerry’s work-life was spent at the Post Office, however, when he retired 10 years ago, he was able to do what he really loved, which was volunteering, spending time with his family and helping anyone, anytime, regardless of need. This is how he spent most of his time, until he fell ill in August of 2023.

Though this timeline encapsulates big events, Jerry was a man of small kindnesses and lived day-to-day in service to others. His family counted on his dependability and cherished his kindness, selflessness and the ability to make them laugh everyday.

As Jerry reflected on his life, he often remarked on how his favorite times were spent with his neighbors, friends and family, especially his siblings who passed before him: Frank, George, Bob, Tom, Karen, Helen, Patty, and Jackie. As a man committed to his faith, Jerry knew he once again would reunite with them.

As his last selfless act, Jerry donated his body to science, not just because he was hopeful he would still be “of use,” but because he was an armchair enthusiast of many things, including science and traveling, so he always looked forward to his next adventure.

To celebrate his memory, Jerry’s family invites you to join them at a Memorial Service in his honor, at Immaculate Conception Church, in Jenkintown, on Saturday April 13, 2024, at noon. His funeral mass will follow at 1. Please honor Jerry’s memory by wearing your favorite Phillies attire or a Hawaiian Shirt (his favorite party attire). In lieu of flowers, please consider providing a ride or donating time to help a cancer patient or a veteran in need. If you wish to provide a monetary gift, please consider donating to a local pet rescue or veteran association.