Gerald Dean Stripling was the youngest of his siblings.  He was born in Spartanburg County and attended Spartanburg District Seven schools.  He later attended the Cecil Business College.  Gerald enjoyed cooking (he later became a chef), traveling all over the States while putting smiles on people's faces.

He was of the Baptist faith having been baptized at Majority Baptist Church and attended both Majority and New Day Baptist Churches.  Gerald was active in the community, was thoughtful and loved seeing the world and gaining new perspectives.  Known for his great sense of humor, he dressed to impress and celebrated life to the fullest.  He was a Baltimore Ravens fan and was the best "Chef" of Sparkle City.  We all love Gerald.

He leaves to cherish fond memories: a sister, Joan Stripling (Alonzo) Briggs; brothers, Tyrone (Windy) Stripling, Michael (Angela) Stripling, and Richard Stripling;  aunts, Willie Mae "Bae Bae" Stripling (James) Williams, Lena Stripling (Walter) Kelly; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, August Stripling, Sr. and Hattie Mae Stripling, Gerald was preceded in death by his sister, Sandra Stripling; brother, August Stripling, sister-in-law, Carlleen Stripling; uncles, John Calvin Stripling (Ruth Pendergrass), George Williams, William Stripling (Margaret Spears), James William Stripling, and Preston Stripling.