Gerald Steven Talley

Gerald Steven Talley passed away unexpectedly May 8, 2017 at his residence. Born in Columbus, Ohio August 8, 1953 to Robert and Margaret (Rogers) Talley, he attended Columbus Public Schools and graduated from East High School. Gerald was an avid track athlete, winning many trophies, and was awarded a scholarship to Johnson C. Smith University in North Carolina. In his youth he attended St. Paul A.M.E. Church, where he was baptized, and attended Bible School. As an adult, he joined the membership of the St. Mark AME Church. Gerald was employed at TICO, Buckeye Youth Center, Franklin County Community Based Correctional Facility, Columbus City Schools, and until his passing, the St. Vincent Family Center. He was an exceptional employee and had a passion for working with children who affectionately called him “Grandpa”. Gerald was a musician, skilled at playing the bass guitar. He played with many bands over the years; most recently with “Y’all’s –Way” reggae band. Gerald was known in his community for taking pride in his family, his home, and properties, and for helping neighbors, especially the elderly, with home improvement repairs and projects. Gerald was a simple yet intelligent man who was blessed with extraordinary gifts, including gardening, teaching physical fitness and self-defense, holistic nutrition, and was a self-taught automotive mechanic. Gerald could take an idea and make it a reality. He was loved and admired by many and known to help anyone he could. Gerald believed in God’s mercy and love, practicing the “Golden Rule” in his daily living; a true positive thinker. He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving wife of thirty years Gwendolyn; sons, Jordan and Michael; daughter, Nicole; parents, Robert and Margaret Jeanne Talley; brother, Robert (Lois) Talley; sisters, Gina and Lisa Talley; nieces, Bianca Talley, Imani Williams; nephews, Simeon, Jonathon and Aaron Talley, Damon Mozer, Yohance Williams; great nephews, Ameir Talley, Koyela Williams, and many cousins and friends. Special friends include Scott Thompson, Eric Gordon, Wilburt Norman, McShane Smith and the late Reggie Dejarnette and Clarence Cochran.