Biography: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Gregory (Joe) Gerard, a beloved husband, father and friend who died on April 29, 2025 at the age of 85.
 
Joe was born at Trinity Hospital, Little Rock, October 16, 1939, son of   Marguerite Griffith Gerard and Joseph George Gerard. After attending Hendrix College, Joe ran the Gerard Cattle Ranch on the Saline River for ten years. His love for the land was evident in the way he managed the ranch, cultivating not just cattle, but a sense of community and family. His legal career started in 1975 after receiving his Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas. Soon after, Arkansas’ senior United States Senator John McClellan asked Joe to join his Washington, D.C. staff.
 
 After the Senator’s death, Joe decided to stay in D.C., working in the Washington Affairs office of Ford Motor Company as a Legislative Associate. This was a position that helped launch Joe’s Washington career and introduced him to some key people at Ford who became mentors, close friends, and good golfing buddies.    Joe’s career took a decisive turn when he became Vice President of Government Affairs for the American Furniture Manufacturers Association.  He held this position for twenty years.
 
 
Joe married Gail Huckabay in 1982. They lived twenty years in Bethesda, MD, where they led active lives with travel, golf trips, and enjoying all Washington had to offer. Joe and Gail always welcomed visits from family and friends to their home on Abingdon Road.  They decided that 2000 was a good year for Joe to retire and return to Arkansas. As a child, Joe was brought to Trinity Cathedral and was thrilled at the prospect of returning to worship there in retirement. A cradle Episcopalian, Joe’s spiritual life was his guiding light.  
 
 
Known for his signature bow ties, Joe had a flair for style that matched his vibrant personality. He approached life with an infectious enthusiasm, never missing an opportunity to express his love and appreciation to his family and friends, leaving a lasting impact.
 
Joe was preceded in death by his parents and step mother, sister, Ann Somers (Jack), brothers William Gerard (Louise) and Charles Morten (Winnie)
Joe is survived by his wife, Gail, two daughters, Jennifer Griffith Gerard (James) and Jill Bradley Jones (J).  Two step children, Layne Keenan and Michael Huckabay (Kathryn).  Eight “grand”children all loved and cherished, Huck, Samantha, Sam, Natalie, Emma, Sylvia, Jack, and Zoe. 
 
 
A Service celebrating Joe’s life will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral on Tuesday, May 13th at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow. The family requests memorials be made to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 310 West 17th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72206.
 
With appreciation to Joe’s A-Team caregivers, Matt, John, William, Demond, Dennis, Larry, Alicia.  Capable people who made Joe’s homestay possible.  Our thanks to each of you!
 
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com