Gerald E. Millson

AYER – A life well-lived came full circle as Gerald E. Millson passed away Friday evening, May 26, 2023, on the same acre on which he was born nearly 93 years ago. Jerry died peacefully surrounded by his family in the home he and his Dad had built. A second son, born to George E. and Laura A. (Pray) Millson on May 29, 1930, he was a lifelong resident of Ayer, graduating from Ayer High School in 1948 where he was known for his quick speed and agility as a football and baseball player for Ayer High School. Jerry served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 with the hopes that he might see the world. Instead, he was stationed at Ft. Devens where he was able to go home at night, reporting for duty the next morning. He received his Bachelor and Master’s degrees from Boston University and began his career in education. His first teaching assignment was with the Concord Public Schools where he was a Physical Education Teacher and Athletic Coach. Jerry ended his career in his hometown, retiring as the Principal of Ft. Devens Elementary School on the year of its closing. He went on to serve the Town of Ayer in many capacities, serving on the Ayer School Committee, Ayer High School Building Committee and the Board of Health. He was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ayer. Jerry had varied interests. He was an avid reader and particularly enjoyed action thrillers and mysteries. After his retirement, he loved travelling with his beloved wife and family, spending summers in Maine and wintering in Florida. Jerry loved nothing more than being with his family and enjoying a sunset on the beach. A lover of nature, he tended the gardens and lawns beautifying the family home on Flanagan Pond. A devoted husband, he met his wife, Alice R. (Titus) Millson of Ayer in the first grade. They were married for 70 years, establishing the 5th generation of the Millson family on the pond. Besides his wife, he leaves two sons, Clark Millson and his wife Karen of Carlsbad, CA and Glenn Millson of Ayer; a daughter, Cynthia Plunkett and her husband William of Ayer; a brother Robert Millson of Greeneville, TN; two grandsons, Daniel Plunkett and Kyle Plunkett and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Donald Millson. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 2, at 10AM in the Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Rd., Ayer, followed by a graveside service at Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making contributions in Jerry’s name to the Ayer Shirley Education Foundation.

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Gerald E. Millson

May 29, 1930 - May 26, 2023