Gerald L. “Jerry” Faller, 84, of Franklin, passed away suddenly at his home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

Born at his family’s home in Venus on April 22, 1941, Jerry was the son of the late Austin and Ina Fox Faller. He was a 1959 graduate of Cranberry High School and humbly served his country in the United States Army, including time stationed in France.

In 1962, Jerry began work at Franklin Steel, starting a career that spanned more than 50 years. Through dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic, he advanced to the role of Sales Manager before retiring at age 79, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and professionalism.

Above all else, Jerry was an amazing father and grandfather. He always showed up for his family with unwavering support and was dependable in the truest sense - someone you could always count on. He took immense pride in his role as “Papa White” (known for his white hair), and nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his daughter Ashley; her husband Tim; and his grandchildren: Graham, Amelia, Opal and Theodore. He was especially delighted by the recent arrival of the twins, whose presence lit up his face and brought a smile that never disappeared.

Jerry also shared an especially close bond with his nephew, Nicholas Lynch, who was like a son to him. Living nearby in Franklin, Nick was a constant presence in Jerry’s life, and their close relationship brought him comfort, companionship, and joy.

Jerry found peace and purpose outdoors. He loved spending time cultivating his vegetable garden, took great pride in his yard work, and enjoyed helping his family rehabilitate the old family homestead. An avid hunter, he valued the quiet patience that came with time spent outdoors. These moments reflected who he was at his core: steady, hardworking, and deeply rooted in the simple joys of life.

Jerry married the former Connie Ann Russell on September 20, 1963, at Calvary United Methodist Church. A devoted husband, he tirelessly cared for Connie’s medical needs in her later years with patience and dedication until her passing on May 18, 2017. Jerry carried her memory with him every day.

Surviving are his daughter, Ashley Novak; her husband Tim; four grandchildren, Graham Alexander, Amelia Ann, Opal Mae, and Theodore Grey Novak, all of Concord Township, OH; and three sisters: Helen King, Anne Irwin, and Mary (Gene) Amsler. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom was very dear to him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Connie; and his siblings, Mildred Sharrar, Dorothy Sharrar, Beatrice Steer, Lavina Mohney, James Faller, John Faller, and Geraldine Faller.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 West Park St. Franklin, where family and friends are welcome from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Monday. 

A Memorial Service will follow at 7:00 P.M. Monday in the funeral home chapel, with Rev. Dr. Darrell Greenawalt of Christ Church Franklin officiating.

In honor of Jerry’s service to our country, he will receive full military honors rendered by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard at the conclusion of the Memorial Service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the V.E.T.S Honor Guard, P.O. Box 137 Franklin, PA 16323.

Online condolences may be sent to Jerry’s family by visiting huffguthrie.com.