Geraldine McGovern, 91, beloved wife of the late George C. McGovern, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021, at Heritage Hall Nursing Home in Agawam, Massachusetts.
Geraldine McGovern, 91, passed away Aug. 29. Her funeral will be private.
Her maiden name of “Friend” truly exemplified her kind, loving nature. “Gerry” grew up in Darien and attended Tufts University, where she met her future husband.
Afterwards, she attended Katherine Gibbs Business College and worked as secretary for several doctors in the Darien area. After marrying George, the couple settled in Fairfield, where they raised their four children — Kate, Michael, Patty, and James. The family lived for over 50 years at 22 Millard St. on a circle that was the perfect place for kids to play.
Gerry, a homemaker, and George, a high school English teacher, were totally devoted to their children. They rarely went out on a Saturday night, preferring to spend time with the family watching the Mary Tyler Moore Show, playing Monopoly, or taking a trip to Shea Stadium to watch the Mets.
They completely supported their children’s athletic endeavors, never missing a softball, basketball, baseball, or soccer game or swim meet. For those rare moments when Geraldine had time to herself, she loved spending time with her cat, Desdemona. When Gerry sat down on the couch, Desdemona would immediately hop into her lap, purring nonstop.
Gerry loved Broadway musicals, especially “My Fair Lady.” “On the Street Where You Live” was her all-time favorite song. She also enjoyed “South Pacific” and was thrilled when her kids got her second-row seats to see a performance on Broadway.
Gerry and George enjoyed attending family get-togethers at the homes of her siblings, Carol, George, and Jim. She spoke to her sister every single day. Gerry was truly blessed to be part of such a generous, close-knit family.
Geraldine was predeceased by her husband, George. She is survived by her sister, Carol Giavara, of Milford and her brother, James Friend, of Darien. She was predeceased by her brother, George Friend, of Stamford. Her four children, six grandchildren, one great grandchild (born this week), and many nieces and nephews, survive her.
In her final days, Gerry received exceptional care at Heritage Hall Nursing Home, part of Genesis Healthcare, and through New England Hospice of Hingham, which welcomes donations. Memorial services and burial will be private.
— an obituary from Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, where online condolences may be left