Tributes

Gerald (Jerry) Schwartz, born July 21st 1934 in Cincinnati, OH and passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on April 9, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. Jerry will be remembered for his incredible achievements and exceptional sense of humor. Among other business endeavors he most notably worked with his father, Harry, and brother, Howard, who together formed Harry Schwartz & Sons. They worked hard to construct homes that still shape many neighborhoods in Cincinnati. He served in the US Army Tank division during the Korean War. Later in life, he found his true passion in dog shows. He spent nearly 30 years as an American and Canadian approved Kennel Club judge traveling all over the United States, Canada and even Mexico. In addition to his professional and civic achievements, Jerry was a prolific writer. He was a weekly contributor to “Dog News” with sections such as, “The Judge Speaks” and “Jerry Speaks”. He consistently shared his political opinions by writing nearly weekly letters to the editor for the Cincinnati Enquirer. Politics were something that remained incredibly important to him throughout his entire life. Additionally, he consistently shared his insightful, “Words of Wisdom” segments with his neighbors, family and anyone else who would listen. He was an active community member helping to found Fathers Group at United Cerebral Palsy Center. He was an incredible advocate for the disability that impacted his son, Neil Schwartz. He actively worked to ensure not only his son had the care and access to resources he needed, but also others facing Cerebral Palsy as well as their families. The level of empathy he possessed was rare and beautiful. Jerry was also an active volunteer for the Hamilton County Democratic Party and Rockdale Temple. He was also a consistent blood donor for Hoxworth and often volunteered at polling places during elections. Perhaps Jerry's greatest achievement was the positive impact he had on his family. He often said we have a family of quality, not quantity. He was a devoted husband to Nancy Schwartz and a loving and loyal father to Neil Schwartz and Ilene Hayes, and doting grandfather (or Zayda) to Haley Hayes. The health and happiness of his children and granddaughter was always his top priority. He was also a dear brother to Howard Schwartz and a loving uncle to Halan Schwartz. The grief and gratitude felt by his living relatives (Including his daughter Ilene Hayes, granddaughter, Haley Hayes, and nephew, Halen Schwartz as well as their spouses, Bob Hayes, Pheonix Jackson and Linda Schwartz) is a true reflection of the impact he played in their lives. To know Jerry was to love him, he was one of the most kind hearted individuals to grace this earth. He will be missed dearly. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to LADD, The Special Olympics, Stray Animal Adoption Program(SAAP). A graveside service will be held on April 14 at 1pm at the United Jewish Cemetery in Montgomery, 7885 Ivygate Ln. Cincinnati, OH 45242.

Tributes

Gerald "Jerry" Schwartz

July 21, 1934 - April 9, 2026