Gerald J. Feeley

All because two people fell in love…

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gerald “Gerry” Feeley, an extraordinary man whose life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and a passion for fishing. Gerry, aged 85, was a lifelong resident of Waltham, where he spent the majority of years creating a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Gerry’s journey began when he met the love of his life, Elaine, as teenagers. Their connection was immediate, and Gerry knew from the start, Elaine, affectionately called “Toots” was the one with whom he would spend his life. Married for an incredible 64 years, their love story was a beacon of love and devotion, filled with countless notes expressing “I love you” tucked away in cabinets and drawers,

Together they built a home brimming with love, laughter, music and warmth. Their union produced five children who were the center of their world and expanded to include six amazing grandchildren and a precious great-granddaughter. Gerry’s love for his family knew no bounds, and he expressed his affection freely, ensuring everyone knew just how deeply they were loved. He and Elaine created a haven of happiness that extended to all fortunate to be a part of it.

Gerry’s dedication to family was unparalleled. His devotion was not confined to his immediate circle, as he and Elaine extended their love to nieces and nephews, and love and care to Tony and Ricardo, demonstrating the depth of their generosity.

A proud veteran, Gerry served in the United States Army during the early years of his marriage. He furthered his education, earning an associate’s degree before obtaining his bachelor’s degree from UMASS Boston. Gerry’s commitment to service continued throughout his career as a Waltham police officer, where he quickly ascended to the rank of lieutenant. Gerry’s passion for the law and his community defined his professional life, leaving an indelible mark on those he served. 

Upon retirement, Gerry continued to share his knowledge and passion by teaching at the police academy. He further dedicated himself to public service as a Waltham Ward 8 Councilor, tirelessly fighting for the well-being of his community. His commitment to helping others extended to his work at the senior center, where he supported the elderly in accessing essential services.

Beyond his civic contributions, Gerry found solace and joy in fishing, a passion he shared eagerly with friends on the beach. The vision of him standing on the shore, casting his line and chatting with friends and talking about a fish “this big!” imprinted in our memories. Even in later years when he couldn’t fish, he cherished his fishing gear with the hope of returning to the water. He loved the ocean in all seasons and felt fortunate to have a home for his family at the beach. He said he had the best of both worlds and couldn’t ask for anything more. Gerry’s love for fishing mirrored his love for family and friends, as he cherished the memories of those he had lost and spoke fondly about them.

Gerry and Elaine recently split their time between Marshfield and Florida, where they found new joys and continued to build a life filled with love and happiness. He always said he was the “luckiest man” for he had everything he wanted. Gerry, affectionately known as Grumpy, Bumpy, Dad, and Honey, embraced life with a heart full of love, pride and gratitude. His family meant everything to him and his impact on their lives was immeasurable.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Elaine Feeley (Pomella), Children; Sherry Costello of Marshfield, Linda Feeley, Brenda Feeley, Michelle Feeley and her partner, Jay Bourgeois, of Waltham, and Michael Feeley and his wife Judy Feeley of Duxbury. He leaves his cherished grandchildren, Kyle Noiles, Jared Noiles and his wife Taylor, Sean Costello, Cara Costello, Andrew Feeley and Marissa Feeley. He is survived by his precious great granddaughter, Rylie Noiles. Gerry also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews he loved very much. He was predeceased by his siblings, Richard Feeley, Kathleen Gould and Patricia LeFevre and his loving parents, Kathleen and Harold Feeley.

Gerry leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and resilience. His life was a testament to the beauty of family, friendship, and pursuing one’ passions. We are all better for having known him, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in his journey.

His shift is over, and his impact lives on. May he rest in peace, casting his line in the eternal sunshine he so dearly loved.

Family and friends will honor and remember Gerry’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Thursday, February 15^th from 4 to 7 p.m. and again at 9 a.m. on Friday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Mary’s Church, 133 School Street, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m.  Burial in Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne will be on Monday, February 19th at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Childen’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at https://www.stjude.org/