Gerald Joseph Motherway

Gerald (Jerry) Joseph Motherway of Helena, Alabama, passed away on November 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 82. Jerry was born on October 10, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, to Marie (Moylan) and Denis Motherway, one of twelve children in a large, loving, and boisterous family. He married Patricia Elliot on September 12, 1964, and together they proudly raised two sons, Sean and Patrick.

Jerry was deeply rooted in his Catholic faith, and the Church was woven into the fabric of his life. He was ordained a Deacon on April 18, 1982, in Chicago, Illinois, and served faithfully in several parishes as his family relocated for his career in technology, including St. Damian Catholic Church (Oak Forest, IL); St. Edmund’s Catholic Church (Troy, MI); St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church (Kentwood, MI); Holy Spirit Catholic Church (Huntsville, AL); Prince of Peace Catholic Church (Hoover, AL); and Holy Family Catholic Church (Birmingham, AL).

Jerry took great joy in helping others. Throughout his ministry, he worked in hospital outreach, supported local Catholic schools, assisted with marriage preparation counseling, and presided over weekly services. Most recently, and regularly since his retirement, he proudly presided almost daily at “Our Lady of the Waffle House,” where he ministered to staff and strangers alike. He was always happy to lend an ear, offer prayers, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee.

A writer at heart, Jerry wrote six books to share with family and friends—semi-fictional stories inspired by adventures with his family and childhood friends, “The Drixon Dragons.” He was blessed with a great imagination and deep understanding, and through his writing and sermons, he touched and blessed many lives.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Motherway; his sons, Sean Motherway (Geri) of Saukville, Wisconsin, and Patrick Motherway (Kara) of Evanston, Illinois; and his cherished grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud: Erich and Austin Schneider, Campbell Foresman, and Calder and Cooke Motherway. He is also survived by his brothers Jim, John, Martin, and Patrick Motherway, and his sisters Betty Quinn and Maureen Manzo.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Marie and Denis Motherway; his brothers Denis, William, and Joseph Motherway; and his sisters Mary Beverly and Francis Carbone.

Services will be held on January 24 at 12:00 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 1910 19th Street Ensley, Birmingham, Alabama 35281.