In loving memory of our father, Gerald James Thomas Billedo (Jerry), who passed away on August 31, 2025. Jerry was born in East St. Louis, Illinois to Joseph Charles Billedo, Sr. and Cecilia Cholet Billedo on August 18, 1940.

Jerry was the devoted husband of Carol Ann Margaret Billedo (Carol preceded him in death on July 18, 2022) and loving father of Christine Billedo Fagerquist (Andrew Fagerquist, Hunter, Holden and Harrison), David Billedo (Stacey Zipp Billedo, Ryan, and Reed), Donald Billedo (Amy Reiser Billedo, Megann, Chase, Brody and Sophie), Carrie Billedo Steinle (Kevin Steinle, Clayton and Curtis) and Darren Billedo (Pamela Dornhorst Billedo, Reese and Brooke).

Jerry was the beloved brother of Joseph Charles Billedo, Jr. (Preceded in death in 2000) and sister-in-law Dorothy Jeannette Billedo. He was also brother-in-law of George Paul Darner (Elaine Darner, preceded in death in 2019) and James Francis Darner (Jeanne Darner). He will be deeply missed by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jerry grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and as a boy attended St. Pius V School. He met the love of his life, Carol, in 1955 at Tower Grove Park while coaching a boys' soccer team with a friend. He graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1958 and later earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Harris Teachers College. The two love birds were married and started their family in St. Louis, where they brought five beautiful children into the world (Christine '63, David '67, Donald '69, Carrie '73 and Darren '77). In 1979 Jerry's career with Hussmann Refrigeration led the family to Texas, beginning a new chapter full of adventures. From 1988 to 1991, Carol, Jerry, Carrie and Darren lived in London, England, while Jerry served as Group Finance Director for Hussmann Europe. Though part of their hearts stayed in Texas–with Christine, David and Don pursuing education and careers–their time abroad became one of their most memorable family experiences. In 1991, they returned to the Klein area of Texas, where Jerry lived for the remainder of his life.

Jerry's career with Hussmann Refrigeration spanned over 30 years. He joined the company in 1973, was promoted to Region Branch Controller in Houston in 1979 and then advanced to Region Branch Manager in 1985. His final promotion in 1988, to Group Finance Director for Hussmann Europe, marked a significant milestone in his distinguished professional life. Some of his fondest memories were formed during his career–working alongside colleagues, traveling, and navigating the exciting challenges of the business world in the 80's and 90's.

Jerry had a lifelong love of baseball, a passion that began in his youth when he served as a batboy for the St. Louis Cardinals Organization. He continued to enjoy the game throughout his life. He and his beloved wife, Carol, also shared a love of golf and spent many hours watching tournaments together.

Another of Jerry's passions was trains. As a proud grandfather, he delighted in sharing this interest with his grandkids–setting up a train display at Christmas and even building a portable train table to nurture their curiosity and love for all things related to Thomas the Train.

Jerry was a dedicated and supportive grandfather, always present in the lives of his 13 grandchildren. Whether attending sports games, musical performances, or graduations, he was their biggest cheerleader. When mobility became more difficult, Jerry found other meaningful ways to spend time with them–playing cards, Left, Right & Center, and working on puzzles together—especially those themed around baseball, St. Louis, or England. These moments, filled with storytelling and laughter, became cherished memories. The dining room table was often filled with unbalanced plates and glasses, thanks to the current puzzle tucked just beneath the tablecloth.

Jerry's life was his wife and family. He supported and raised his five children with his wife and later helped her spoil 13 grandkids. One of his proudest accomplishments was putting his five children through college and seeing them all graduate. He was able to see five of his oldest grandchildren graduate from college and knew the remaining eight had similar plans and supported them in accomplishing their goals.

Jerry was heartbroken when the love of his life, Carol, passed away in 2022. He tried to carry on their cherished traditions and found comfort in the presence of his family, always eager to listen to their stories and adventures. Jerry's legacy is one of love, devotion, and unwavering support. He leaves behind a family united by the values he and Carol instilled–faith, resilience, and the importance of being together.

God Bless this Family!

Memorial donations can be made in Gerald James Billedo's name to the American Diabetes Association or the Dementia Society of America.