Alison Daly Gerard, a cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, at her home in Meadowburn Farm, located in Vernon, New Jersey. She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her death. Born into a distinguished family in Fairfield, Connecticut, Alison lived a rich and engaging life that spanned nearly a century.
Alison was the beloved wife of C. H. Coster Gerard, who predeceased her in 2012, after 54 years of marriage. Together, they raised five children: Charles, Alison, Daniel (married to Olivia), Christopher (married to Laurie), and Emily (married to Richard Sloan). Alison’s legacy also includes her role as grandmother to 15 grandchildren, including Philip (married to Rachel), Loughran (married to Skyler), and Danny, among others. She was a proud great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren: Hazel, Dorothy, Emory, Elvis, and Donovan.
A Life of Service and Family Commitment
Growing up as the seventh child of Colonel and Mrs. Paul G. Daly, Alison was known for her spirited personality and sense of humor. She shared her childhood with siblings Madeleine, Paul, Michael, Bevin, Daniel, Roy, and Dermot, all of whom have passed away. Alison’s early years were spent on her parents’ farm in Greenfield Hill, where she developed a love for equestrian activities and nature.
Alison graduated from the Convent of the Sacred Heart in Greenwich, Connecticut, and later attended Manhattanville College in New York City and Purchase, New York. After marrying C. H. Coster Gerard, the couple lived in various locations, including Shreveport, Louisiana, before returning to their roots in Fairfield and eventually settling in Vernon.
A dedicated volunteer, Alison spent significant time tutoring young children, particularly at the former St. Cecilia Parish School in Harlem. Her passion for education and support for those in need was evident throughout her life. Known for her strong opinions and deep convictions, she also had a compassionate side, often extending her empathy to the widowed, infirm, and those feeling lost.
Personal Passions and Community Bonds
In her later years, Alison enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, and maintaining the woods and trails at Meadowburn with her husband. She was an avid reader, particularly fond of mystery and detective novels. Her commitment to her faith was reflected in her attendance at daily mass for much of her life.
Alison forged a special bond with Rosemarie Johnson, a pillar of strength in her later years. The family expresses profound gratitude for Rosemarie’s unwavering support and care for their mother and grandmother.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Anthony Community Hospital, located at 15 Maple Avenue, Warwick, NY 10990.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, March 1, from 15:00 to 17:00 at Alison’s residence, 41 Meadowburn Road, Vernon, NJ 07462. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Monday, March 2, at 10:00 at St. Stanislaus Church, 17 Pulaski Highway, Pine Island, NY, followed by interment at Warwick Cemetery, located at 50 Oakland Avenue, Warwick, NY. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Avenue, Warwick, NY. To send condolences online, please visit www.lsvpmemorialhome.com.
Alison Daly Gerard’s rich life, marked by love, service, and devotion to her family, will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.
