Gerald Michael Keneally

Gerald Michael Keneally, 80, resident of Shaftsbury, and Melbourne, FL passed away on August 24, 2025 in the Viera Hospital in Florida. Jerry was born in New York City on December 16,1944 to Joseph and Rita Keneally. He received his education in Westport, CT, graduating from Staples High School. He received his college degree from Wesleyan University, working as a Tennis Instructor during summers. Upon completion of his college degree Jerry enlisted in the Army, spending two years in what he referred to as “a whole different education”.

After the Army, Jerry began his banking career in Hartford, CT. Deciding city life wasn’t what he wanted and desiring to see the country while he was ‘’young and carefree”, he bought a VW van, and toured the United States. He stopped in Shaftsbury, VT to visit his brother, Stephen, ‘liked the place’, was low on funds and applied for a job at the Catamount Bank in North Bennington. Thus began 40 years of banking in Bennington.

Jerry married Sharon Shea. They raised four children: Finley (Monique), Kevin (Sarah), Kate (Matt), and Michael. Family was most important to Jerry. He was the keystone to the family’s blueprint. Family vacations on Cape Cod and Delaware, ski trips in the winter were filled with laughter, raucous good times, and warmth. Jerry was a provider. Education and new experiences for his children were important to him. From sports to music, to dance, to horseback riding, Jerry enthusiastically sat through many games, recitals, and competitions.

Jerry and Sharon are blessed with seven grandchildren: Paige, Maeve, Samantha, Alexis, Julia, Grace, and Konnor. Jerry delighted in their arrival, their visits, their personalities and accomplishments.

Jerry was an excellent chef, enjoying new recipes, cooking, and reveling in the company of family and friends. Upon retirement and spending the winters in Florida, golf became his most frequent, enjoyable form of exercise. Joining the Suntree Country Club and hitting the links three times a week he made many friends. Jerry was an avid reader, especially enjoying history and mysteries.

Jerry is survived by his four brothers: Stephen (Amy), Ken (Nina), Chris (Rachel), and Joseph (Elizabeth), and a beloved aunt, Anne Hart. Jerry was predeceased by his sister Clare.

Jerry was a well-loved family man, a thinker, and a leader. He was always available for advice, had a straight forward, no nonsense approach, and was a great listener.

At the request of the family, no calling hours are to be held. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on October 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in North Bennington. The burial will be private, by the family’s request.