Gerald Meredith Jr.

Obituary: Celebrating the Life of Gerald Meredith Jr. July 5, 1967 – July 2, 2026 It is with profound sadness, yet with deep gratitude for a life magnificently lived, that we announce the transition of Gerald Meredith Jr., who passed away on July 2, 2026, just three days shy of his 59th birthday. A resident of Ettrick, Virginia, Gerald was a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a passionate scholar, and a tireless advocate for others. In his final act of profound generosity, Gerald gave the gift of life to others through organ donation, sharing his heart, liver, and kidneys. A Life of Service and Honor Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on July 5, 1967, Gerald carried a spirit of resilience and leadership throughout his life. He honorably served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. Following his military service, Gerald dedicated years of his professional life to public safety, working at the Sussex I State Prison until his retirement due to his loss of vision. Gerald was diagnosed with Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a rare genetic disorder that causes a loss of central vision. Rather than allowing this diagnosis to limit him, it became the catalyst for a powerful second chapter of leadership and advocacy. Gerald's life was defined by his unwavering commitment to community empowerment. He served with distinction as the President of the Blinded Veterans Association Richmond Chapter and was a dedicated member of both the American Legion and the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). Driven by a deep sense of justice and compassion, he served as the NFB advocate and liaison for incarcerated members at the Deerfield Correctional Center, ensuring that those often forgotten still had a powerful voice. His leadership and expertise were recognized at the highest levels; he was appointed by Governor Glenn Youngkin to the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind and Vision Impaired. A proud alumnus, Gerald was also an active member of the Chesterfield Chapter of the Virginia State University Alumni Association, and at the time of his passing, he was passionately pursuing his PhD in Criminal Justice. Family and Legacy While his public achievements were vast, Gerald’s greatest joy was his family, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and devotion. Gerald’s memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife of nearly 35 years, Alesia Meredith; his daughter, Mystique Meredith, and his son, Marques Meredith. He is also survived by his devoted mother, Veronne Turner; his sister, Quentelle Jones (Marlon); his brothers, Quentin Meredith and Anthony Turner; his mother-in-law, Clara Farrar; and his sister-in-law, Simone Farrar. His vibrant spirit lives on through a generation of joy, including 7 nieces, 2 nephews, 3 great-nieces, and 4 great-nephews, as well as a host of extended family, colleagues, and friends. Gerald was preceded in death by his brother, Lance Meredith, and his nephew, Ste'fan Johnson. Service Information Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Gerald's incredible life and legacy. • What: Homegoing Celebration for Gerald Meredith, Jr. • When: Sunday, July 12, 2026 • Time: 4:00 PM • Where: American Legion, Varina Post 233 8088 Recreation Rd Henrico, VA 23231 A repast will immediately follow the ceremony at the same location. Memorial Donations In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Gerald's honor to the organizations closest to his heart. Please direct contributions to: National Federation of the Blind: nfb.org American Legion Varina Post 233 "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." Gerald’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, the systems he changed for the better, and the individuals who live on today because of his final, heroic gifts. Professional Services Entrusted To: March Funeral Home Richmond, Virginia Streaming information to follow

Tributes

Gerald Meredith Jr.

July 5, 1967 - July 2, 2026