Jerry Faragalli, 72, passed away on Nov. 22, 2023. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and proud grandfather. Jerry was born on Nov. 20, 1951, in Philadelphia, Penn., to George N. and Ethel B. Faragalli. He grew up in a bustling household with three other siblings. Their family home in Westminster, Calif., provided the backdrop for his formative years.
Jerry’s academic, singing and athletic pursuits began at La Quinta High School, where he actively engaged in football and choir. He was a member of the music group Young Americans, which which allowed him to travel within the United States and around the world. His passions continued into his college years at Orange Coast and Golden West College, where he not only pursued his education but also excelled in music.
Notably, he achieved the significant milestone of being the first in his family to receive a couple of Masters and two Doctoral degrees at CSULB and USC. He performed in several movies and a large number of theatrical plays.
After college, Jerry became a Big Brother of the Big Brothers organization. Additionally, he ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing his own private investigative company and locksmith business.
He forged lasting friendships with countless individuals through every season of his life. These friendships added a rich layer to the tapestry of his life, creating shared experiences and lifelong memories. Jerry had a passion for music and that love was shared though his beautiful singing voice and acting. He shared his amazing stories about youth-filled adventures and “questionable escapades.”
Jerry was a person who embraced life fully, sought out new experiences and perhaps occasionally tested the boundaries. These aspects of Jerry’s youth contributed to the mosaic of his personality. His qualities contributed to the multitude of memories that will be cherished by friends and family alike.
In the early 1970s Jerry met his wife, Chris. They had a son, David, and he quickly adjusted to being a full-time single father, taking David to and from school, karate lessons, music, movies and one of David’s favorite places, the Huntington Beach pier to play arcade games. He taught him how to bowl and fish, and they went to Disneyland a lot, creating lasting memories that he carried with him each day.
Jerry shared his passions with his family and friends. He became a great cook and enjoyed sharing his recipes with his family and friends. He also became a volunteer at the Huntington Beach Therapeutic Riding Center for disabled children.
Jerry’s decision to become a teacher in his 50s is a testament to his enduring passion for constant learning and teaching. Teaching in the county’s juvenile court system indicates his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of young individuals who may have faced many challenges. He enjoyed his quiet morning drives up Ortega Highway with his friend Big John.
After his son, David, left his home, Jerry adopted two brothers. And in his retirement he enjoyed spending time with his family and managing Crest Lodge historic mountain Inn for many years.
He was a member of the Mountain History Museum and Crest Forest Senior Citizens Center. He created the “Oldies but Goodies” group at Crest Forest Senior Citizens Center, where he showcased his singing, knowledge and stories.
He became best friends with his older brother, George, and on Oct. 10, 2023, they went to Italy for almost three weeks.
Jerry is survived by his son, David Faragalli; one adopted son, Gilbert Jenkins; his daughter-in-law, Kelly; his brothers Joseph, George, Michael and John; his nieces Jordana, Angelica and Ashton; and his nephew Adam.
A celebration of life will be held on Jan. 27, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Crest Forest Senior Citizens Center.
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