Gerald Eltringham

Gerald Eltringham, 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Chapel Pointe in Carlisle, PA. He is survived by his loving children, Gerald Lee Eltringham and wife Shara of New Cumberland, David Andrew Eltringham and wife Jennifer of Boiling Springs, and Susan Marie Williams and husband James of Mechanicsburg.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, who were one of his biggest joys: Zachariah and Cailey Eltringham, and Noah (Katyrhina), Chloe, Jakob (Jocelynne), and Andrew Eltringham. In addition, he is survived by a sister, Shirley Sacona, and many nieces and nephews.

Born on February 13, 1933, to George and Bertha (Kline) Eltringham, he was the fourth of six children. Jerry grew up in Shamokin, PA, and graduated from Shamokin High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served 4 years as a radio operator on an aircraft carrier. Following an honorable discharge, he furthered his education at Bloomsburg University, studying education, and wrestling on the varsity team. He and the love of his life, Jeanette, married in June of 1959 and began their lives together. They raised their children in Monroe Township and moved to Boiling Springs in 1985, where they spent many wonderful years.

After 30 years, he retired from his career as a computer systems analyst at the Naval Base in Mechanicsburg, but those who knew Jerry know that he could never sit still. So, for 8 years he taught computer programming to students at Cumberland Perry VoTech and then continued to substitute for years before finally retiring. He was loved by his students and received updates from many of them for years following his retirement.

Jerry enjoyed a lifelong joy of playing softball, which included many spring training trips to Florida, and competitions in the Senior Olympics. He continued playing until age 87, even serving as a “pinch runner” for his teammates unable to run! He liked watching sports of all types, with Penn State football and the Philadelphia Phillies being favorites, as well as any sport his grandchildren participated in. He also enjoyed attending St. John Lutheran Church, where he served on the church council, joined numerous committees, and fulfilled the role of an usher.

In his later years he enjoyed relaxing with his West Highland Terrier, Murphy, going out for ice cream, and visiting with friends and family.

Always the jokester, Jerry’s quick wit and dry sense of humor will live on through his children and grandchildren. He was a kind, generous, caring man whose family was his utmost priority. A devoted husband, father, father-in-law, pap, neighbor, and friend, Jerry will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be 10am-11:30am, with funeral services held immediately after on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church, Walnut and Second Streets, Boiling Springs. Following the service, burial will be in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Boiling Springs.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or Homeland Hospice, 2300 Vartan Way #270, Harrisburg, PA 17110.