Gerard J. Panyard, born January 14, 1931, passed away at 93 on August 12, 2024.

Jerry was born in Detroit, MI, the son of the late Wilhomena and John Panyard.

Jerry was an artist, author, and teacher. Originally pursuing a path to priesthood, Jerry left St. Joseph's Redemptorist Seminary in Kirkwood, Missouri after deciding his true calling would be as a devoted husband and father. After proudly serving in the Korean War, Jerry met Pauline at the Gaelic League Detroit in Corktown.

Retiring as illustrator for General Dynamics and Chrysler, his art career fostered years of teaching at Madonna University and Henry Ford College. He spent much of his free-time at "Panyard's Paradise" in Cheboygan, painting birds, landscapes, and flowers. His art inspired by his love of nature. He was happiest when surrounded by trees. He enjoyed writing short stories like "The Dime Store Santa." He was active in the Farmington Artist Club volunteering for community events and participating in shows.

Jerry, a devoted parishioner to St. Gerald's Catholic Church, served as an usher and a proud Knight with the Knights of Columbus.  Social time with the church included cards and bus trips through the church.

He maintained many loving friendships throughout the years, some spanning over 80 years.  His passions culminated during the celebration of Christmas.

While Jerry will be missed by his family on Earth, he is finally reunited with his family in heaven. He will be so missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Pauline Elizabeth O'Neill Panyard, and his three children Jean Marie (John) Davis, Michael (Michele), Joseph (Elisa), and his seven grandchildren; Nicholas (Lindsay), Claire (Derek) Korejsza, Thomas Korejsza, Elena, Colin, Isabel, and Catherine, and his great-grandchildren Casey and Quinn.

The Panyard family will receive guests Thursday, August 15, 2-8 pm at the funeral home, with a rosary at 7 pm.

A mass celebrating Jerry's life will be Friday, August 16, 11 am (in state 10:30am), St. Gerald Catholic Church, 21300 Farmington Rd, Farmington.

Immediately following the mass a funeral procession will take Jerry to his final place of rest, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield.

Jerry was born in southwest Detroit with a strong family presence at Most Holy Redeemer Church. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be considered to the Holy Redeemer Grade School or Detroit Christo Rey High School .

Please keep the Panyard family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.