Gerard “Jerry” Patrick Keenan, 81, of New Bern, NC passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Jerry was born on September 19, 1945. In Paterson, NJ to the late Leo and Gloria Cordisco Keenan.

The oldest of 3 boys, Jerry had a unique sense of humor at a young age, playing jokes on his father and siblings. His jokes have been called “Jerry Jokes” on 2 continents. His love of music began when he and his brothers were in the St Brendan’s Drum & Bugle Corps. He also started his habit of playing with his fingers when idle.

Just after his 18th birthday, Jerry joined the U.S. Navy as a Radioman, a career he loved the rest of his life. He was stationed in Europe most of his 20 years including Iceland, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, USS Little Rock, USS Saratoga, then on Carrier Task Force 60, homeported in Naples, Italy being on board 6 aircraft carriers. His final duty station was at CINCUSNAVEUR, London England in the communications group where he served as Lead Radioman.

After retirement Jerry worked for Naval Investigator Service until 1988 in London. While in the UK Jerry joined several dart teams and won over 20 trophies. He also worked for Special Service having several photos and articles published. In 1989 he moved back to the states where he taught Investigation techniques at BOCES in Suffolk County, New York. He also assisted families in obtaining military service records.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathy, his children Duane, Lindsay (Justin), Kim (Rex), John and Karen. Nephew Jason (Megan), Nieces Katie (Vic), and Liz (Jeff) and brother Al (Linda), grandchildren Nicola, Lee, Bruce, and Xander, grand niece and nephews, James, Albie, Liam, and Olivia, and great-grandchildren Rhaya and Conlan.

Jerry was predeceased by his brother Leo, son Paul and daughter Audrey.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Disabled American Veterans or Wounded Warriors.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church, 3005 Country Club Road, New Bern, NC 28562 on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Coastal Carolina Cremations is honored to serve the family and friends of Gerard “Jerry” Keenan.