Generoso “Jerry” Aurigemma, 80, of Pingree Grove, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on October 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Jerry was born on October 29, 1944, in New York, the son of Andrew and Santa Aurigemma. In January 1968, he married the love of his life, Phyllis M. Benincaso, and together they built a beautiful family filled with love, laughter, and devotion.
Jerry had a long and successful career in sales and marketing, and he dedicated much of his time to helping others. At both St. Hubert Catholic Church and later Holy Family Church, he led the Job and Employment Networking Ministry, a program designed to connect people with job opportunities and provide encouragement during times of transition. His compassion and leadership left a lasting impact on many lives.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Jerry found great joy in being actively involved in his sons’ lives and later in cherishing every moment with his grandchildren. He was an avid traveler who explored the world with curiosity and enthusiasm, a movie and history buff, and for the past twelve years, an active member and leader within his neighborhood HOA.
Jerry will be remembered for his kind heart, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis Aurigemma; his sons, Andrew (Stephanie) Aurigemma and Jerry (Jennifer) Aurigemma; and his cherished grandchildren, Grayson and Kennedy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Santa Aurigemma.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
A Funeral Mass will follow at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley.
Burial will take place at Huntley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Animal House Shelter in Huntley or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or visit www.defiorefuneral.com to leave an online condolence.
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Jerry was one of the first people we met when we moved here 11 years ago. Jerry was keeping the builder on his toes and protecting our future finances and never quit working for the community. Jerry was spunky, feisty and not afraid to share his opinion, but, he listened to others as well. Jerry wasn't very talkative about how he worked with unemployed people much, but his impact I'm sure was very significant in helping people get their lives back on track. He was a humble servant, a good man and a good friend and we will miss him. May God be merciful on Jerry's soul and with Phyllis as she lost the love of her life.
Wow so shocked to hear Jerry passed away right before his birthday 😪 All our love and prayers to all our cousins, Phyllis and Rick Schwartz 💕🙏🩵
Dear Phyllis, I am so sorry to hear about Jerry. He was a fine and generous man. He will be missed. I can't come to the wake/funeral. Vic passed away 10/15/24, it is too close for me. Ill try to get in touch with you soon Fondly, Paulette
We were saddened to hear of Jerry’s passing. We’re neighbors and often saw Jerry and Phyllis walking in the neighborhood. They were always upbeat and friendly & we enjoyed chatting with them both. Wishing peace and comfort for you, Phyllis. ❤️🙏🏻
I'm blessed to have known this man and his family. Generous, full of life, charm, good humor and love of family. And man did he get things done, accomplished in all he set out to do in his career and retirement. For me personally, mentoring that lasted a lifetime, and a friendship like no other. Phyllis, Andy and Jerry - - thank you for sharing him with me for all those years. We had a blast. Love you -- Doug
Gonna miss my paisano...had such great times traveling the East Coast with him for Simmons...and lunches with him and his amazing wife Phyllis at Palm Court. Thoughts and prayers with you and family. RIP my friend.
I attended Jerry’sfuneral today as a member of the Holy Family Job Support that Jerry participated in as a leader. My sincere condolences to the family. Jerry was a wonderful person. I met him through the Holy Family Job support and always enjoyed our time together. We are all blessed to have had Jerry in our lives. Jerry will always be a great memory in my life.