Geraldine A."Gerry" (Peterson) Durso

Geraldine A. Durso passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on July 5th, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband, James R. Durso and her loving daughter, Teri L. Durso. All who knew her will remember her unselfish nature and her generosity to family and friends alike. A dedicated mother who never stopped loving and nurturing us, we were blessed to have had her for so long.

Gerry, as she was known by most, was born in Geneva, NY, on May 16th, 1937, to Gordon and C. Anna Peterson. She attended school in Waterloo and went to work at Goulds the day after she graduated. She attended college to become a teacher at Mynderse Academy, where she helped students meet their requirements to graduate. Always a teacher, she taught all of her grandkids to drive and to play her favorite game, Euchre. An avid card player, she also looked forward to her Bridge clubs, and enjoyed bowling, bocce, and family gatherings. Gerry belonged to several clubs and the SMS Auxiliary and could always be found where laughter was heard. Her cooking was legendary, and she made sure all enjoyed their meal, of course followed by her signature banana cake. She also took great pride in her many beautiful flowers that she enjoyed every day.

Gerry is survived by her son, James (Lin) Durso; daughters, Patricia (Nori) Leader, Karen (Greg) Durso, who moved in with Mom and was her primary caregiver, and GeriKay (Michael) Forde; grandchildren, Nicholas (Nina) Leader, Nicole (Jeff) Leader Abbott, Zach Leader, Brittianie Forde, Halie Forde, Lanie Forde and Tyler Durso; and great-grandchildren, Jamie, Avery and Vito, all of whom adored her, referring to her as GiGi, and shared many hours of enjoyment together.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Maureen’s Hope Foundation, 44 Oswego Street, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.

In honor of our mother’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church, 97 West Bayard St., Seneca Falls on Saturday, July 12th at 11:30AM. She will join her husband, James R. and daughter, Teri L. Durso, in eternal rest in St. Columbkille Cemetery.