Gerald E. "Jerry" Serena

Gerald E. “Jerry” Serena age 83, passed away peacefully early on the morning of August 29th of 2024 in Petersburg Illinois.

Jerry was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Violet. Also preceding him were his stepson John Neuhoff, his parents Clara and Pete Serena and his beloved sister, Rita Israel. 

 Surviving family members include his brother, Richard “Dick” (wife Donna) Serena; his three grandchildren, Cory Neuhoff (wife Alyssa), Shannon Neuhoff-Mosher (husband Robby) and Shawn Neuhoff; five great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

 Jerry valued his entire family dearly and commented several times near the end how lucky he was to have them. He was a devoted husband to Violet and spent many weekends together enjoying the grandchildren, raising champion beagles and in the early years, speeding down the dragstrip.

 He worked his entire career as a skilled auto mechanic. He loved his cars and knew how to fix them. Jerry gained many lifelong friendships from his enthusiasm for cars. Along with his car passion came a passion for animals. He loved his field trial beagle weekends and also raised rabbits, chickens, ducks and other birds. 

 Family and friends are encouraged to celebrate Jerry’s life on Tuesday, September 3rd at Mott & Henning Funeral Home in Athens, Illinois. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until time of funeral services 10:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens. 

Rev. Gennicks will be officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to the American Cancer Society. 

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.