Gerald "Jerry" Frederick Sweat

Gerald “Jerry” Frederick Sweat was taken by addiction the morning of Sunday, May 27, 2018. He was 39 years old.

Jerry was born in Peoria, IL on April 30, 1979 and immediately adopted by Frederick Milton & Tonya Joy Sweat (nee Roberts) – both of whom he now joins in eternal rest. Jerry graduated from Metamora Township High School in 1997 where he enjoyed playing soccer and drums. After high school, Jerry spent several years traveling the west as a true sojourner living in Colorado, Oregon, and northern California before returning to Illinois and beginning his work in flooring installation. He was a seeker, a protector, and a natural jokester. He was smart, brave, and loving – and from his first day to his last, to his core, he was a kind and tender-hearted soul.

Jerry and his family resided in Nashville, TN and he is survived by his devoted and longtime love, Emily VanAuken and the light of his life – their daughter, Annabelle, only 5 years old. He is also survived by his sister, Sara Sweat of Nashville, TN, his step-father, James Goodnow of Denton, TX, along with many extended family and friends.

A reception celebrating Jerry’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at Jonah’s Seafood House in East Peoria, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Jerry’s name to The Refuge Center for Counseling, 103 Forrest Crossing Boulevard #102, Franklin, TN 37064 or at www.refugecenter.org where his family will be receiving care.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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