Gerald "Jerry" Russell Sunden

Gerald “Jerry” Russell Sunden, born February 14, 1935, passed away April 22, 2025 in the company of his long-term “sweetie” Phyllis McGinley--concluding his long and brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Jerry has said that being a father to his four sons was the greatest joy of his life. Jerry Sunden’s actions certainly backed up that statement. Jerry was involved in many activities with his children including, Wiffle ball, coaching Little League teams, basketball games in the driveway, board games and early video games on a Magnavox Odyssey. Jerry also taught formative life lessons.

Jerry’s love of people went beyond his sons. Jerry enjoyed working in the fields of accounting, purchasing, materials management, sales and in his later years a greeter in the restaurant industry. Jerry’s work stories mostly focused on the capabilities of staff and co-workers and the power of teamwork.

Jerry’s strong moral compass compelled him to take stances against racism and sexism--which at times resulted in challenges in his own career. Jerry has been known to say “They knocked you down pretty hard. I would have understood if you did not get back up. But I loved the way you got back up.” Jerry demonstrated this by example several times in his life.

Jerry is survived by his sweetie Phyllis McGinley, His sons Jeff Sunden, Ken (Debbie) Sunden, Dave Sunden and Daniel Sunden. Gerald is also survived by his brother Gary Sunden, sister Virginia Lagana, Grandchildren Casey Albertsun (Ryan), Kyle Sunden, Colin Sunden and Trevor Sunden, and his great grandchildren Lachlan Albertsun and Eilidh Albertson. Jerry loved his nieces, nephews and their children, all whom have survived him. Jerry is also survived by Valerie Pruden, his former wife, with whom he has remained friendly his entire life.

Born in the state of New York, Jerry loved the New York Yankees his entire life. Jerry shared his love of baseball with his sons.

The family is planning a celebration of life June 14, 2025. Should you wish to make a donation on behalf of Gerald Sunden, the family recommends the Alzheimer’s Association.