Gerald J. "Jerry" Ralls

Gerald J. "Jerry" Ralls, Jr.,69, a lifelong resident of Lowell died January 7, 2014. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen M. (Low) Ralls of Lowell who survives him.
Born in Lowell on July 19, 1944 he was the son of the late Gerald J. Ralls Sr. and Ann (Regan) Ralls.
Jerry grew up in Lowell, graduating in 1962 from Lowell Trade School. He went on to earn a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from the former University of Lowell. Jerry enlisted in the United States Army, having been stationed in Germany, and was honorably discharged in 1972.
For 15 years, Jerry worked in the Mental Health Care System as a special needs counselor. For the majority of his career he was employed as a corrections officer, having worked at the maximum security prisons in both Concord and Shirley.
Jerry was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed beautifying his home, as well as handcrafting many pieces of furniture. He loved to cook and enjoyed camping over the years with his family. Jerry was very knowledgeable and knew a little bit about everything, and specifically, was interested in history.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Jason A. Ralls and his wife, Tara currently residing in Denmark, Jessica L. Ralls of Dracut, Shane F. Cogliano and his wife, Pam of Tewksbury, Cathleen C. Bilich and her husband, Kenny of Methuen; his grandchildren, Jack Ralls of Denmark, Spencer, Sawyer and Piper Bilich of Methuen; a brother, James Ralls and his wife, Jerri of Lowell; his mother in law, Inez Low of Canada; a sister and brother in law, Colleen Lank and her husband, Jimmy of Hyde Park; his beloved dog, Abby; many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was the father of the late Sean Cogliano and brother of the late Della Welch.