Gerald J. Bartolo

Gerald J. “Jerry” Bartolo 73, of Franklin, passed away peacefully, at his home Monday March 16, 2026, following an illness. He was a beloved son of the late Gennaro & Rosemarie Bartolo.

Born in Everett, MA Gerald lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and an easy ability to connect with everyone he met.

A proud Veteran, Gerald served his country during the Vietnam War in 1972. The sense of dedication and perseverance he carried from that time stayed with him throughout the rest of his life.

Gerald spent more than five decades working as a grocery manager for Stop & Shop, dedicating 53 years to the company. For many in the community, he was more than a familiar face at the store-he was someone who always had time for a conversation, a joke, or a friendly check-in. Gerald was known as a talker in the best sense of the word. He had a natural gift for making people feel comfortable, and he truly could make a friend anywhere he went.

Gerald was also a loyal Boston sports fan who rarely missed the chance to cheer on the Boston Celtics or the Red Sox. Whether watching a game, telling stories, or catching up with friends and family, he filled every room with conversation and warmth.

Gerald will be remembered for his hardworking spirt, his love for his family, his loyalty to the teams he cheered for, and the countless conversations and friendships he created throughout his life. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his stories, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Outside of work, Gerald’s greatest joy was his family. He was deeply devoted to his grandchildren and loved being part of their lives. Whether it was bringing them to their sports games, cheering from the sidelines or proudly talking about them to anyone who would listen, his grandchildren were one of the greatest sources of pride and happiness in his life.

One of his greatest pleasures in recent years was working alongside his son Christopher in the family business, Bartolo Builders, sharing not only work but time, laughter, and the bond of family. Among his greatest legacies is the bond he shared with his son, who credits his father for teaching him how to use his hands and build with purpose-lessons rooted in patience, pride, and quiet dedication that remain with him every day.

Gerald leaves behind his loving children, Christopher Bartolo of Franklin, Alexis Messina and Monique Bartolo. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Joseph Genaro, Isabella Rose and Gianni Christopher, who will forever carry his love, encouragement and memories of time spent together.

He is also survived by his brother, Anthony Bartolo and his wife Lucy of Lynnfield, his sister Jean Moro and her husband Frank, his two nieces, Nicole and Jennifer; as well as his aunts and many cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Saturday March 21st, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Franklin at 10AM. To view the Mass stmarysfranklin.org

Burial with military honors will follow at the parish cemetery.

Calling hours are Friday March 20th, from 4-7PM at the funeral home.

Guestbook www.franklinfuneral.com

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