Gerald Ames

Gerald “Jerry” Ames, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 in Novato, CA.  

He was born to Frank and Marcella Ames in San Francisco, CA and was raised in the home in the Sunset District with brothers Frank and Richard, both deceased. Jerry attended St. Ignatius High School in San Francisco and the University of San Francisco. He served in the United States Army Reserves from 1959 until he was honorably discharged in 1965 and worked for Standard Oil for the length of his career, taking the ferry across the San Francisco Bay. 

Due to his strong Catholic faith and generous spirit, he lovingly volunteered for the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael and St. Peter’s Elementary School in San Francisco. Throughout his life, Jerry enjoyed walking in the outdoors, spending time entertaining family and friends in his home in San Rafael and with his longtime friends in Russian River. 

Jerry will be remembered for his ability to entertain with such detailed stories of San Francisco history, his thoughtfulness and generosity and for his great sense of humor and infectious laugh. 

Jerry is survived by his nieces: Linda, Carrie, Shelley, and Jenny; nephews: Mike, Justin, Jeremy, and Devin; and godson: Brian. He was a great friend and uncle who always had time and energy to spend with all of them and will be sorely missed. 

“Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received– only what you have given: a full heart, enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage.” ~St. Francis of Assisi