Jerald E. Janasiak Jr.

It is with great sadness to announce the death of Jerry, affectionately known as "The Dude" to those who knew and loved him. 

He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were always entertained by his stories and hilarious sense of humor. He was extremely outgoing and it was very easy for him to make friends with complete strangers in a matter of minutes. He was a very lovable guy.

Jerry left this life on August 4, 2026 , just four days before his 57th birthday after a long and courageous fight to regain what he had lost after suffering from a catastrophic stroke.

Born on August 8th, 1969 to the late Jerald and Ginette Janasiak, he was raised in New Jersey. Jerry later settled in western North Carolina and made it his home. There was no other place that he wanted to be. This is where he met and married the love of his life, Linda and settled in Warne. 

Jerry was a jack of all trades, an extremely hard worker, held various positions and careers always taking pride in the work that he did.

He was an avid NY Jets supporter despite that their only Super Bowl win being the year that he was born, he never let that discourage him from being the only Jets fan in the area and he would prove that by wearing the numerous NFL licensed garments that he had in his wardrobe. 

Jerry was one of a kind. God absolutely broke the mold after we were blessed with his presence on Earth. He will be sadly missed. 

Our family wishes to extend our deepest gratitude to the care team at Sylva Valley Health & Rehab.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Linda in 2019. 

He is survived by his sister Deborah Keyes and husband Michael; niece, Danielle Van Soest and husband Jason; extended family; NC "family" and friends.

A private cremation will be held.

The family suggests memorial contributions in Jerry's memory to be sent to The American Heart Association (www.heart.org) and The American Stroke Association (www.stroke.org).