Gerald F. Hess “Jerry” “Chief”

PHOENIX, NY – Gerald F. Hess “Jerry” “Chief”, 85, of Phoenix, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24^th, 2026, after a long battle with kidney disease.  He was a graduate of Phoenix High School, class of 1960.  After high school he served in the United States Marine Corp from July of 1960 – January of 1966.  He then went on to work as a sheet metal worker with the Local 58 out of Syracuse, NY.  Jerry was an avid golfer, enjoying many rounds at Beaver Meadows Golf Club.  He was a huge NY Yankees fan making sure to yell at the TV every time they played, as well as a NY Giants fan.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family.  Gerald was a member of Phoenix Enterprise Fire Company No. 1 for 62 years serving as Fire Chief in 1979 and 1980.  He always spoke highly of his time in the department.  He felt very strongly about serving his country and community up until the very end of his life.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of almost 65 years, Gail Roasalie Hess; his sons, Gerald “Jay” Hess, Troy M. Hess (Kelly); daughters, Shelly Pluff (Jim), and Tracy Esposito, 9 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; sister, Gertha Caples; brother George Warner; as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Gerald is predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Leona Warner; as well as his siblings, William Hess, Gordon Warner, Bruce Warner, Glen Warner, and Milton Warner.

There will be no calling hours.  There will be a graveside service at Phoenix Rural Cemetery, 126 Chestnut Street, Phoenix, NY on June 5^th at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that you please consider donating to Fresenius Kidney Care (St. Joseph’s, Seneca).  You may donate online by visiting the St. Joseph’s Health-Syracuse, Giving Landing webpage and selecting “Dialysis Services”, or by mail to the St. Joseph’s Health Foundation, 973 James Street, Suite 250, Syracuse, NY 13203, or by phone (315) 703-2137.  If you are looking to become a living kidney donor, you can also fund more information through St. Joeseph’s Health Organ and Tissue webpage.

James A. Menter Funeral Home has care of arrangements.