Geraldine “Jerrie” Black, 82, of Rockford, passed away on April 27, 2026. Born in Rockford, IL, to Gerald and Mavis (Dewey) Pals on November 7, 1943. Jerrie was married to Stewart Black for over thirty years, and they had three children together. She was proud of being a mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother. She delighted in sharing stories of her family especially of her beloved grandchildren. Jerrie was a close friend to many and a faithful Christian. Jerrie was an avid animal lover with many pets and enjoyed watching wildlife. She was thoughtful and intelligent, proving her skills at cards and games. Jerrie was very skilled with a sewing machine made many outfits for her children. She loved reading and watching television. Jerrie enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends. Jerrie was very proud of her education from business school and her government job before children. She was a volunteer for Divorce Care, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Arthritis Foundation and Overeaters Anonymous. She taught ‘Joyful Joints’ and the 'Pace Program' at the local YMCA for several years. Jerrie was a member of Rock Church and current resident at Independence Village, often leading Bible studies and Prayer Groups.

She is survived and will be greatly missed by her children, Shari (Stuart) Johnson, Julie (Gene) Edwards, William (Beth) Black; grandchildren, Holly Johnson, Quincy Johnson, Timothy Johnson, Nathan Black, Brandon Black; sister, Patricia Cooper; nieces, Stacey, Tracey, Kim, Kari; and other extended family. She is predeceased by her parents; brothers, Robert Pals and Greg Pals, and ex-husband Stewart Black.

A memorial service for Jerrie will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A visitation will be held an hour prior from 9:30 a.m. through 10:30 a.m. Luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary or the Arthritis Foundation. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.