On July 13, 2022, AFSCME learned that a union legend passed away: AFSCME President Emeritus Gerald W. McEntee.

Jerry McEntee was a visionary leader and one of the most fearless, ferocious advocates working people have ever had. Standing up for public service workers was his passion and his life’s work. From the moment he became an AFSCME member 66 years ago, he never let up in the fight.

As AFSCME’s International President for 31 years, he led AFSCME to historic growth through aggressive organizing while also making AFSCME a political powerhouse, with his innate understanding that political action was essential to giving working people a voice, from the White House down to every city council across the country.

Jerry was also a man of joyful, infectious energy and a lively storyteller with a tremendous sense of humor. His down-to-earth charm drew people to him, just one of the qualities that made him a great leader.

If you are interested in contributing to the Gerald W. McEntee Scholarship Fund, click here.

Now, we want to invite all members of the union family to share your memories. By clicking here, you can upload a photo or type out a thought, big or small. These memories will be a balm to Jerry’s family — and a reminder to all of us of the work we must carry on.