Gerald Allen Cartwright II, lovingly known as Jerry, Dad, Grandpa, "Jer-Bear,” and “Mr. C,” peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father at his home after a courageous battle with cancer and heart disease.

Jerry was born on June 19, 1954, to Gerald Allen Cartwright and Dorothy Nell Watkins in Kansas City, Missouri. True to the adventurous spirit that would define his life, Jerry entered the world a little faster than expected, making his grand arrival in the hallway of Lutheran Hospital before his mother ever reached a delivery room.

Growing up as the eldest son in a family of ten children, Jerry was both a steady example and a natural explorer. He spent his childhood between Missouri and Northern California, where he developed a lifelong love of the ocean, the beach, and the free-spirited culture of the era. His warm, accepting nature and appreciation for people from every walk of life remained with him throughout his life.

As a young man, Jerry faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bristol, England. His missionary service strengthened his testimony of Jesus Christ and shaped the way he lived the rest of his life, with quiet faith, genuine compassion, and a desire to serve others.

After returning home, Jerry followed a friend to Rexburg, Idaho, a decision that forever changed the course of his life. There he met the love of his life, Lori Erickson, over fifty years ago. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls Temple, beginning an eternal partnership that would weather life's joys and challenges side by side. Rarely apart from one another, Jerry and Lori built a life centered on faith, family, humor, and service.

The young couple spent time in eastern Idaho before moving to Logan, Utah, where Jerry attended Utah State University and pursued his dream of becoming a teacher. His career eventually brought their family to the beautiful Heber Valley, where Jerry became an elementary school teacher. Generations of students passed through his classroom, and many remember him not only for the many pets he kept there and the hats he hand-knitted for each student, but for the way he made them feel valued, capable, and confident. His influence will live on in the countless lives he touched.

Above all other accomplishments, Jerry's greatest joy was his family. He and Lori were blessed with four children. He treasured being "Grandpa Jer-Bear" to his eleven grandchildren, each of whom held a unique and special place in his heart. Few things brought him more happiness than gathering with the people he loved most and soaking in the laughter, stories, and beautiful chaos that came with being surrounded by family.

Friends and strangers alike were drawn to Jerry’s gentle nature, warm smile, and playful sense of humor. Whether sharing a joke with a friend or photobombing a stranger's wedding picture, he brought joy wherever he went. Jerry had an extraordinary gift for making every person feel seen. He welcomed people without judgment, listened with sincere interest, laughed easily, and loved generously. Somehow, each person walked away believing they were his favorite, and in many ways, each one was.

Those who knew Jerry will remember a gentle giant whose strength was evident not only in his stature, but also in his compassion, hard work, and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Our family extends sincere thanks to the many medical professionals, home health caregivers, and hospice staff who cared for Jerry with such kindness and compassion. Your support, comfort, and friendship meant more to us than words can express.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Allen Cartwright and Dorothy Nell Watkins, and his beloved sister, Catherine.

He is survived by his eternal companion and devoted wife, Lori Erickson Cartwright; his children, Bridgett McBride (Michael), Andrew Cartwright (Kristin), Emily Cartwright, and Sean Cartwright (JaNeil); his eleven beloved grandchildren; his two brothers and six sisters; and countless extended family members, former students, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.

A funeral service honoring Jerry's life will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00am, at the Heber 4th Ward, located at 240 East 400 South, Heber City, Utah. For those unable to attend in person, the service may be viewed online via the link: https://zoom.us/j/98983760565