Gerald “Jerry” Lee Correjolles

Gerald “Jerry” Lee Correjolles passed away peacefully on Monday, October 19, 2026, at North Oaks Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family following multiple medical complications.

Born on September 15, 1945, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Louis and Clara Correjolles, Jerry was a lifetime resident of Hammond. He graduated from Hammond High School in 1963 and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Southeastern Louisiana University in 1968. A proud veteran, Jerry also honorably served his country in the Louisiana Army National Guard.

He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, and counted many good friends in the community. He was always willing to help those who called on him.

Throughout his distinguished professional career, Jerry was a cornerstone of the Hammond business and civic community. His banking career began in 1978 at Citizens National Bank, where he served as Vice President, Commercial Lender, and Business Development Officer. He later served in similar leadership roles as Vice President at Deposit Guaranty National Bank and ultimately retired from Hancock Bank as Vice President and Manager. Prior to banking, he worked with several local businesses, and never one to slow down in retirement, Jerry acquired and managed rental properties-and even spent time as a professional stump grinder.

Jerry dedicated much of his life to public service and community enhancement. In 1995, he was elected to the Hammond City Council representing District 4, serving eight years including two terms as President and two terms as Vice President. He was deeply involved with the Hammond Chamber of Commerce for 30 years as a Board Member, Board President, and Chairman of the Industrial Development Committee. As a long-standing member and President of the Hammond Industrial Development Board, Jerry was instrumental in bringing numerous nationally recognized firms to the area. He also served as President and Board Member of the South Tangipahoa Parish Port Commission for 15 years.

A true "servant of the people," Jerry’s philanthropic leadership touched countless lives. He served as President, Drive Chairman, and Director of Hammond United Way, Inc., raising vital funds for those in need. A dedicated member of the Hammond Kiwanis Club, he served as President in 1983, led the Program Committee for many years, and was honored in 1999 with the prestigious George F. Hixon Fellowship. Additionally, Jerry supported the Boy Scouts of America for 15 years on the Istrouma Area Council, served as State Education Chairman of the Young Executives Section of the Louisiana Bankers Association, and was President of the Town & Country Plaza Merchants Association. In 1981 he was named to Hammond Junior Auxiliary’s Hall of Fame in appreciation for his many contributions in service to the community.

Jerry was a passionate champion for his alma mater, Southeastern Louisiana University. He was an active member of the SLU Alumni Association, serving as President, Chairman of the Student Affairs Committee, and Chairman of Campus Relations. He also served two terms as President of the SLU Booster Club.

Jerry was a faithful parishioner of Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Hammond, serving as usher for several years.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Diane Pitarro Correjolles; his daughter, Janelle Correjolles Allen and husband Curt; his son, Kevin Correjolles and wife Shelly; his brother, Louis John “Chip” Correjolles and wife Deborah; and his cherished grandchildren, Will Allen, Connor Allen, Jordyn Correjolles, and Brynlee Correjolles; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Clara “Beanie” Correjolles and infant grandson, Blaine Correjolles.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tahseen Rab for his devoted and compassionate care for Jerry over many years.

Family and friends will be received at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 600 North Oak Street, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Thursday, October 22, 2026 from 9:00 am until the Mass of Christian Burial begins at 11:00 am, with Fr. Charlie Johnson officiating.

Entombment will follow at Rose Memorial Park Cemetery in Hammond, Louisiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.