Gerald T. (Jerry) Lynch

I met Jerry when I was 5  years old in Cincinnati while he was playing for the Reds. The circumstances that led to our meeting was quite interesting. As I recall, Alice met my cousin Marsha in the maternity ward of the hospital as they were both having babies. In Alice's case it was Kimmy. They became friendly and my cousin invited the Lynch's to their house for a cook out on a Sunday afternoon. My family was also invited. When I learned that Jerry was going to be there, I asked Mom to iron the number 24 on my Cinti Reds baseball jersey which I wore to meet him. I will never forget that day. I know I bugged him to death to throw the baseball around in the back yard which he did without reservation. From that day on, our families became the best of friends and that friendship lasted a lifetime.

The relationship was strong not because of Jerry's celebrity status but because of the man he was, kind, good hearted, patient and giving. My father, now deceased, had those same charistics.  They admired and respected each other for the values they shared. I know my parents were honored when Jerry and Alice made the request to my parents to be the God parents of their son Patrick. 

The entire Lynch family had a positive influence on our lives. Jerry was a huge part of my childhood. He gave me great memories that will never be forgotten. I loved him and will miss him.