Oct. 8, 1950 – Sept. 2, 2017

NATCHEZ — Graveside services for Gerald Lynn “Jay” Verucchi, 66, who died peacefully Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, at home surrounded by family, will be 11 a.m. Thursday at the Natchez National Cemetery with the Rev. David O’Connor officiating. Burial will be under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Jay was born Oct. 8, 1950, in Natchez, the son of Augustine and Betty Verucchi. He was a lifelong resident of Natchez. Mr. Verucchi was self-employed in the pest control business for more than 40 years. A Vietnam veteran, Jay served proudly with the U. S. Marines Combat Engineers. He was a member of Natchez Home Builders Association, Natchez Realtors Association and a founding member of the Crew of Phoenix. He served on the State of Mississippi Pest Control Board. Jay was a life member and longtime trustee for Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 9573 in Natchez. What he loved most was hunting and fishing with his sons and grandchildren and spending time with his family. He always had his favorite side-kick “Z” by his side.

Survived by his parents; fiancée, Cathy Rose Newman; his son and best friend, Connor Verucchi and wife, Diane, of Natchez, and son and best friend, Hayden Verucchi and wife, Tiffany, of Foxworth; two brothers, Donnie Verucchi and wife, Carolyn, of Natchez and Mark Verucchi and wife, Shannon, of Jackson; two sisters, Sue Verucchi of Vidalia and Angie Havard and husband, Kenny, of Jackson; four grandchildren, Collin, Jay Weston, Hayden II and Hannah; and five nephews and three nieces.

The family sincerely thanks the Natchez Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic staff, the Jackson Veterans Administration Chemotherapy Unit, Dr. Frost and Dr. Khanbur and nurses Melody, Buddy, Karen, Katherine, Mark, John and Richard. Also thanks to Hospice nurse Veronica Edmonds and Hospice minister, the Rev. Britt, a very special thank you to caregivers George Hence, Betty Gail Freeman and Johna Verucchi for their kind loving care.

Members of the VFW Post 9573 will serve as honorary pallbearers.

A repast will follow the graveside services at Assumption Catholic Church in Tuite Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to VFW Post 9573 at 111 Espero Drive, Natchez, MS 39120.

Online condolences may be sent to lairdfh.com.