Jerome "Jerry" Hoydic

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that we celebrate the life of our beloved friend, Jerry—a man who truly knew how to seize every moment and brighten every room he entered. Jerry's zest for life was unparalleled, his humor as bold as his spirit, and his presence a gift to all who knew him.

Even in his final days, Jerry faced life's greatest challenge with his signature mix of wit and wisdom, often leaving us laughing through our tears. Though he spoke of fears of loneliness, he was never truly alone. Surrounded by friends who loved him deeply, he found strength, solace, and the unwavering grace of God, who carried him gently through his last moments.

In his journey toward peace, Jerry's spirituality flourished, and he made peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. We can only imagine him arriving at heaven's gates, cracking one of his infamous, irreverent jokes—likely leaving even the angels in stitches. A note Jerry had written as a daily reminder to himself says, “Don’t smile because the days are gone, smile because you had them”.

Jerry's love of life extended to the people and companions he cherished most. His heart belonged to Christian, his son, with whom he sought reconciliation in the hopes of a renewed bond. And then there was Buddy, his ever-loyal, hearing-impaired furry sidekick, who shared with Jerry a silent yet deeply profound connection.

Had Jerry written his autobiography, there's no doubt it would have been titled "That's All!"—a simple yet fitting sendoff for a man whose life was anything but ordinary.

As we say goodbye, we carry forward the laughter, warmth, and love he so freely shared with us. Jerry's legacy is one of joy, resilience, and unshakable faith. Though we mourn his passing, we find peace knowing he has reunited with the Lord, and we can almost hear him quip one last time, "That's All!"

He leaves behind to cherish him in memory, his son, Christian Hoydic; sister, Dorthea (Doris) Langer; best friends, Cindy Ferk, Lucille Savelli and Chris Smith; and his loving canine companion, Buddy. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Wanda; siblings, James and David Hoydic and sister-in-law, Donna Flamio Danko.

Jerry was a member of St. Casimir Catholic Church, 629 Hess Avenue and First Assembly of God, 8150 Oliver Road. Jerry was a dedicated, hardworking business owner of the infamous Gibson Girl Hair Salon located at 613 Payne Ave for more than 40 years.

Rest peacefully, dear Jerry. You will be missed beyond what words can ever capture, but your spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

A special “THANK YOU” for ALL the doctors, nurses and staff members at Hamot Hospital where he spent much of his life over the past few years and apologies for any grief he might have caused. He only wanted to make them smile and that wasn’t something he could always achieve given his medical condition. 

A celebration of Jerry’s life will take place at a later date. 

Contributions may be made in memory of Jerry to the Festival of Trees.

He believed “No one should go without a stocking at Christmas” and in honor of those words, Christmas stockings will still go out to those in need.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Burton Quinn-Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. Downtown, 602 West 10th Street, Erie, PA 16502.