Gerald Swickert

Gerald “Jerry” L. Swickert, a resident of Gainesville, Florida passed away on December 28, 2025 at his home. He was born in Aurora, IL on August 23, 1939 to Henry and Jule Swickert.

Jerry was a graduate of Marmion Military Academy in Aurora, IL. He then went on to Northwestern University in Evanston, IL where he graduated with a degree in voice and teaching. After he graduated, he then went into the Army. He worked in the family business, Fox Valley Iron and Metal in Aurora, IL. In June of 1989 he and his wife Carole moved to Gainesville, FL. He first worked at Gainesville State Bank and then went on to become a stockbroker at Securities Research. He loved the stock market and the many people he helped. He and his wife joined Queen of Peace Catholic Church where he sang in the 6pm choir for almost thirty years. In his lifetime he entertained at many events in Illinois and Gainesville, FL. Jerry was an avid reader and gardener with a talented green thumb and could often be found swimming laps in his pool year-round. He was a loving person and husband, father, grandpa, pops, papa and great grandpa.

He is survived by his wife Carole Ann Swickert and five children, John Swickert (Beth) of Sandwich, IL, Heidi Gilkey (Ken) of Maple Park, IL, Michael Hess of Gainesville, FL, Kathryn Nanke of Gainesville, FL and Darrin Hess (Erin) of Simpsonville, SC. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and seven great grandsons.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jerry's name to Queen of Peace Catholic Church (Memo: Music Room) at 10900 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607. He was a wonderful and talented person. He will truly be missed. 

God gave him a voice from heaven and some of his last words were “I loved singing for the people.”

Arrangements are entrusted to Weems & Sons Funeral Homes, 715 West Park Avenue, Chiefland, Florida 32626.