Clark Gerald "Jerry" Hagerty

Clark Gerald "Jerry" Hagerty, a beacon of love, wisdom, and creativity, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, in Chicago, IL, just days shy of his 89th birthday. Born on October 30, 1936, in Cranbury, NJ, to the late Judson and Elizabeth Hagerty, Jerry's life was a testament to the enduring power of dedication and imagination. Jerry's journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his passions. He shared a wonderful marriage of 55 years with his beloved wife, Jean E. Hagerty, whose companionship and support were the cornerstones of his happiness. Together, they navigated the waters of life with grace and affection. An alumnus with a BS Degree in Business, Jerry's education laid the groundwork for a diverse and successful career. His service in the US Navy instilled in him a sense of discipline and honor that he carried into his civilian life. Jerry's professional path was characterized by his entrepreneurial spirit. He made his mark in sales, where his charm and keen business acumen shone brightly. His creative mind led him to create cabbage patch doll kits, a venture that brought joy to many families. Jerry's innovative streak continued as he bought a crochet thread manufacturing business and became a distributor for safety pins during the friendship bead craze, a clever move that led to the christening of his boat, "Pin Money." For many years Jerry was a board member at Anti Cruelty in Chicago using his retail experiences and love for animals to help support their efforts. Jerry's interests were as varied as they were engaging. At the age of 70, he embarked on a new adventure, becoming a boat captain. For a decade, he delighted in ferrying people to their sailboats in Monroe Harbor. Those who knew Jerry would describe him as a loving husband and a creative soul who never ceased to surprise and inspire. His legacy is not only in the successful businesses he built or the hobbies he pursued with such zest but in the lives, he touched with his generosity and warmth. Jerry's life story is one of a man who embraced opportunity with open arms and who lived with a heart full of love. Clark Gerald "Jerry" Hagerty truly made a difference, and his light will continue to shine in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were graced by his presence. A private graveside service will take place at Lake Forest Cemetery, Lake Forest, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, donation in Jerry’s memory may be made to the Anti Cruelty Society of Chicago at https://anticruelty.org/donate. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest at (847) 234-9649 or www.RTfunerals.com.

Clark Gerald "Jerry" Hagerty

October 30, 1936 - October 27, 2025