WESTFIELD – Gerald A. Iglesias, born June 15, 1944, to the late Val and Marjorie Iglesias, passed away at home on hospice care Saturday, May 3rd, 2025.
Jerry was an Air Force veteran; he enlisted on February 24th, 1967, and worked as an aircraft electrician while assigned to 
the 99th Bombardment Wing (SAC), Westover AFB, Massachusetts. He was deployed to Thailand for 6 months supporting Westover’s B-52’s combat operations in Southeast Asia. Jerry recalled spending New Years Day in Bangkok, a balmy 80-degree day, before being reassigned just a few months later to Eielson AFB in Alaska, where the temperature reached a bone chilling 79 degrees below 0. Jerry served his country in the Air Force for 4 years, 17 months of which were overseas. Jerry continued to serve his community, state and nation through his 30+ year membership to the American Legion. He was a graduate of Westfield Trade Class of 1962 and specialized in machining. After the Air Force, he worked at Valley Gauge, Knight Machine, Millrite and Peerless. He was a toolmaker, quoted jobs, and retired as an inspector at the age of 75.
Jerry leaves his wife Christine of 42 years and his son Jared who he was so proud of. He also leaves his sister Mary Louise Yvon, his twin brother John, his brother Tony (predeceased him), his sister Christine and husband Walter Gutt, and many, many nieces and nephews.
Jerry started bowling around 16 years old and continued up until 80 years old with his brother John. He learned to make wine from his father and would share it with family and friends. Upon retiring, he volunteered at the Animal Sanctuary where his favorite animal was a majestic horse named Gabe. He also started playing chess at the Westfield Senior Center on Wednesdays with a great group of guys. Besides being a New England sports fan, he loved to fish, especially with family. He enjoyed gardening and a yearly trip to Cape Cod with his family.
Jerry’s family would like to thank Baystate Hospice for all they did. A big thanks to neighbors Laura and Chris for stepping up during a time of need. To all family and friends who reached out over the past weeks to show their love, we needed you and thank you.
Military Honors will be held for Jerry on Monday, May 19th, 2025, at 9 a.m. in the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam. Arrangements are under the direction of the Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA 01085 www.firtionadams.com
