Gerald “Jerry” Lee Westbrook, 70, of Rockford, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Jerry was born in Rockford on February 14, 1956, the son of George and Lucille (Blair) Westbrook, both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Guilford High School, Class of 1980 and went on to attend Rock Valley College, majoring in electrical engineering.

A passionate electrical engineer, Jerry took great pride in his work and was known for his incredible attention to detail and deep knowledge of large industrial power systems. He spent many years working at Ingersoll Milling Machine and later continued his career as a private contractor, where he remained dedicated to solving complex problems and delivering quality work. Jerry loved talking about the massive amounts of power involved in the industrial projects he worked on and found genuine joy in the engineering challenges of his profession.

He was an active member of 1st Assembly of God Church as well as Evergreen Covenant Church. Jerry married Patricia Healy at 1stAssembly of God Church in Rockford on November 17, 1979.

Whether at work or at home, Jerry believed in doing things the right way and always being prepared with the proper tools and a well-thought-out plan. He was famously organized, who loved his label maker, and was such a meticulous planner that it often became a source of laughter and admiration among those who knew him best.

Jerry cherished family vacations to the Wisconsin Dells, attending Tommy Bartlett shows, and the annual Fourth of July family gatherings affectionately known as “Westbrook Fest.” These week-long celebrations filled with swimming, fireworks, laughter, togetherness and Jerry’s famous popcorn everyone loved became treasured family traditions and reflected the joy Jerry found in bringing people together.

Jerry was the proud father of John (Justina), David (Giselle), Jeremy, and Michelle (Troy) Hillary. He was also a loving and proud grandfather to Hannah, Chad, Annabelle, Makenna, Madison, Landon, and Lucille, all of whom brought tremendous joy to his life. He is also survived by his siblings: Mae, Ruth (Milton), George (Lisa), and Bonnie (Rick), along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 28th, 2026, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel, Pastor Mike Blair of Iowa officiating, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will conclude in New Milford Cemetery.

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