Geraldine “Gerry” Stiff, a Chicago-born teacher and lifelong lover of Elvis, river boats and her beloved pets, died Sunday, April 19, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. She was 83.
Mrs. Stiff was born August 12, 1942, in Chicago, the only child of the late Adele Micka and Anthony Cherry. She grew up in the Brighton Park neighborhood, where she attended Immaculate Conception Grade School, Maria High School and Chicago Teachers College.
She married Larry Stiff and raised their family in the Brighton Park area before moving to Glen Ellyn during the blizzard of 1979. She taught at Glenbard West High School and spent numerous years working with Pella Windows. She was known for her love of gambling and exploring riverboat casinos along the Mississippi River.
Mrs. Stiff is survived by her husband, Larry; her son, James Stiff, an IT Alliances Executive near Denver; her daughter, Jennifer Stiff, a social worker in St. Louis; her sister-in-law, Judy Lesniak; and cousins Michael and Patty Micka. She was preceded in death by her son, Charles Stiff, and her partner, Leisa.
She had a particular fondness for her “grand pets” — Ruby, Ginger, Maddie and Oscar — whom she spoiled with endless treats. Yellow was her favorite color, representing the sunshine and joy her spirit radiated.
A visitation will be held Monday, April 27, 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Highway, Palos Hills, Illinois. A funeral service will follow Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at St. Casimir Lithuanian Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local no-kill animal shelter in her honor.
For information or to express condolences, visit www.palosgaidasfh.com or call 708-974-4410.