Gerald Bryan Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Jerry, 93, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Funeral services were held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in Orient Cemetery,  Harrisonville, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church in Harrisonville.

Jerry was born on November 16, 1931, in Holden, MO. He was the beloved son of William Jennings Bryan and Mable Elizabeth (Mullen) Fitzgerald. Growing up in a family dedicated to the dry-cleaning business, Jerry developed a strong work ethic and a passion for service at an early age. After his parents sold their shop in Holden, they moved their business to Harrisonville and later to Joplin, before returning to Harrisonville to establish Fitzgerald's Crescent Cleaners on West Washington Street. In 1970, Jerry and his cherished wife, Kay, took over the family business and continued to serve their community until their retirement in 1989.

Jerry was a proud 1949 graduate of Harrisonville High School. On May 31, 1958, he united in marriage with Kay Henley in Pleasant Hill, MO, and together they built a life filled with love and laughter. The couple lived in Independence, MO, and Colorado before making Harrisonville their permanent home in 1960. Jerry's entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond running a dry-cleaning business; he also enjoyed a successful career selling laundry and dry-cleaning supplies to numerous shops across the Midwest. A devoted member of the Harrisonville Christian Church, Jerry's faith was a guiding light in his life. Jerry is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth, kindness, and dedication to family.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, George Brown Henley. He is survived by his loving wife, Kay, of the home; his sons, Scott (Brenda) Fitzgerald of Parkville, MO; and Pat (Terri) Fitzgerald of Kingwood, Texas; his grandchildren: Janna, Megan (Drew), Brandan (Anna), and Christian; his great-grandchildren: Ezra, Hadley, and Charlotte; and many other family members and friends.