Gerald William Coyne

Gerald "Jerry" Coyne, 81, passed away on Friday September 27, 2019. Born on May 3, 1938 in Wheeling
WV to the late Thomas Regis Coyne and Martha L. Coyne. He leaves behind his loving companion of
twenty plus years, Justina Gabbert, Brothers: Msgr. George Coyne, Richard Coyne (Janet), Timothy
Coyne (Nancy) and sister Agnes “Renee” (Coyne) Wilkins.
Jerry was passionate about the Dairy Queen brand from an early age. In high school, be started working
on the clean-up crew at a local Dairy Queen. He went on to become a District Store Manager, and the
Western Regional Distribution Manager for American Dairy Queen Corporation. Eventually he became
the franchise owner of three DQ locations in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Jerry volunteered as a director
for the Dairy Queen Operations' Association for 25 years, working tirelessly to improve the lives of his
DQ family. Through his leadership as President and Treasurer, Jerry was instrumental in the formation of
the Dairy Queen Operators Cooperative. Jerry retired from the board in 2004 and was named Director
Emeritus. In addition to the time he devoted on the national board, Jerry also served his local franchisee
members of the North Eastern Store Owners Association. Jerry held numerous NESO leadership
positions including the associations' Executive Secretary and Treasurer. His countless contributions to
the Dairy Queen system will forever be remembered and appreciated.
Jerry served in the Army reserve, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a respected
member of the community. Most of his contributions to various community organizations were made
anonymously, never wanting to draw attention to himself.
Visitation will be held in Martinsburg at Brown Funeral Home on Thursday, October 3 from 3:00 p.m. to
5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
A second visitation will be Saturday, October 5, 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, in
Bridgeport, Ohio. A Christian Burial Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. celebrated by Msgr. George Coyne
and Fr. John Mucha.
Internment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling WV.  Wilson Funeral Home Brookside assisting the Family.

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