Gerard “Jerry” Oliver Reby, 91, of Denver, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on September 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 5, 1935, in the Bronx,
New York.
Jerry dedicated much of his life to the carpentry trade and, together with his brother, built a successful business, Reby Bros. Construction. While he was a highly skilled and talented home
builder, his greatest pride and joy was his family. He loved deeply and was loved by so many in return.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Lorraine Reby; his children, Doreen Nelligan, Dawn (Claude) Rancourt, Christine (David) Robin, and Jennifer (Brian) Taylor; and his grandchildren, Gerard (Amanda) Nelligan, Robert (Alyssa) Sheffer, Erica (Mike) Thompson, Shannon (Dan) Nelligan, Christine (David) Soto, Michael (Emily) Sheffer, Katherine (Tim) McCoy, Nicole (Derek) Elliott, Kylee Robin, Morgan Rancourt, Kaitlin Robin, Jason Robin, Jack Rancourt, and Gracelyn Taylor.
He is also survived by his treasured great-grandchildren, Declan Thompson, Milah Sheffer, London Thompson, Riley Nelligan, Avery Nelligan, Lily Sheffer, Ellie McCoy, Conor Nelligan, Noah Thompson, McKinley Nelligan, and Madeline McCoy, along with three more precious great-grandchildren expected to arrive soon.
Jerry is further survived by his sister-in-law, Connie Reby, and her children, Diane (Mike) Starr and
Bob (Mary) Reby.
He was preceded in death by his cherised daughter, Laura Sheffer; his parents, Robert and
Catherine Reby; and his brother, Robert Reby.
Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, togetherness, and devotion that will continue through the generations of his family. He was known for his warm hugs, captivating stories, artistic talent in painting and woodworking, unwavering kindness, and unconditional love for those around him. His eyes told a story of their own; with just one look, you felt completely loved.
A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will be held on October 10, 2026, at Unity Presbyterian Church, with lunch and refreshments to follow.
Jerry loved color, a passion reflected in his beautiful paintings. In honor of him, the family invites guests to wear joyful and colorful attire in place of traditional mourning clothing.
Service Information
Date: October 10, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Unity Presbyterian Church, 8210 Unity Church Road, Denver, NC 28037
Service will be live streamed at unitypres.org and select “Watch Live” on the homepage.
Lunch and Refreshments to Follow
3 Cherry Way
8886 Sweet Cherry Lane
Denver, NC 28037
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