Geraldine "Gerry" Desmond

Geraldine Marie (Branick) Desmond. affectionately known as 'Gigi' to her family and closest friends, died at home after a brief illness on Tuesday, November 19, 2013. Gerry lived her life to its fullest each and every day. She was an accomplished artist and pianist, avid golfer and gourmet cook. Her time spent with charitable organizations was significant and included Sacramento Children's Home, Stanford Home, Loyola Women's Guild, The Cancer League, and Christmas Tree Lane among many others. Gerry's friendships were significant and of special value to her. Gerry considered her role as mother, homemaker and wife to Louis N. Desmond the most important and fulfilling of all. Married June 23, 1951, they remained deeply in love with each other celebrating 61 years of marriage prior to Lou's death in 2011. Gerry moved from her home in San Francisco with her husband to begin their new life together and start a family. Gerry taught kindergarten and then substituted while Lou attended McGeorge School of Law. Shortly thereafter Gerry became a mother to and is survived by their four children, Alana Neves, Mary Gemma Ball, both of Sacramento, Denise Fields of Orland, son, Louis N. Desmond Jr. of Southern California; 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grand- children; sisters: Patricia Dugoni and Dr. Alana Fitzgerald of Burlingame, Barbara Clark of Reno; brothers, Dr. Robert Branick of Mill Valley and Vincent Branick of Dayton, Ohio; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Gigi was preceded in death by her mother and father, grand- daughter Melissa Fields and sister Bonnie Branick. Gerry died as she lived, a true lady in every sense of the word. She will be sorely missed for her generosity, graciousness, kindness and talents. She sought the goodness in everyone, and although she did not see herself as brave, she demonstrated more courage and strength then many others in adverse situations. A devout Catholic, she had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother. She practiced her faith each and every day, continuing to drive herself to her parish church Saint Ignatius, every Sunday and Holy Days of obligation despite infrequent bouts of ill health during the last several years. It is often said that 'Behind every great man there stands a great woman.' Gigi touched many people in her life making friends along the way. Similar to her late husband, her life was one of faith in God and love for her family. All funeral services were held at St. Ignatius Church. The Rosary was held Sunday, November 24, 2013 at 7:30 p.m., preceded by a viewing beginning 6:30 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial was offered for the repose of her soul was held on Monday, November 25th at 10:00 a.m. She will be deeply missed.