Roger L. "Jerry" Mclean

RALEIGH – Roger L. “Jerry” McLean passed away August 7, 2022, at age 79. Jerry, as he was known, was born in Raleigh on May 18, 1943, in Mary Elizabeth hospital to Elizabeth Murray McLean and Bernice L. McLean. He grew up in Fuquay Springs as it was called at that time. He married Brenda Williams who he called “the love of his life” in June 1964. Jerry was known for his gift of gab. He loved talking almost as much as he loved eating. Some of his favorite things were NC State University, all things Irish & Scottish, golf, and eastern NC barbeque. At one time, he could name every barbeque restaurant across eastern NC. He also loved the United States Military—especially the Navy in which he served on the USS Amberjack, a submarine. During that time, he traveled to many areas of the world. Jerry was a Charter Member of North Raleigh United Methodist Church. For several years he taught an adult Sunday School Class on the Old Testament. He used his knowledge of history in general and his depth of knowledge of the Old Testament to enrich the members of the class. As he transferred to various states, he led adult Sunday School classes at Snellville UMC in GA; Sanlando UMC in Maitland FL; and Arkansas City UMC in Arkansas City, KS. Each of these classes doubled and tripled in attendance during his time there. Many wonderful people became dear friends. Jerry was known far and wide for his salesmanship. While working for Rubbermaid Consumer Products, he was named “Outstanding Salesman of the Year.” He received the Excellence in Execution award at Gerber Knives & Tools. He achieved the Record Sales Award from Fiskars. He was recognized by Distributors throughout the hardware industry for his support over the 47 years he worked with them. Many of his long, close friends he met as he traveled across the United States. Of all things that he loved, it was his three daughters that he cherished the most. He was so very proud of all they accomplished. Jennifer, Fran and Meredith could do no wrong in his eyes. They will have many memories to share and enjoy as the years pass. Jerry is survived by his wife Brenda, his daughters Jennifer (David) of Raleigh; Fran (Paul) of San Mateo, CA; and Meredith (Geoff) of Snow Camp, NC. He is preceded in death by his parents and a number of aunts and uncles. Many close cousins continue to live in Wake County. In addition to his human family left behind, Jerry had three furry friends he loved very much. He was especially fond of Buddy who came to the family as a feral cat, but became attached to Jerry. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Safe Haven for Cats, 8431 Garvey Dr., Raleigh, NC 27616 or Toys for Tots Foundation, Gift Processing Administrator, 18251 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA 22172 in his memory. Jerry’s funeral will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 12, 2022, in the Mausoleum Chapel at Raleigh Memorial Park, with a committal following by the graveside. The family will receive friends and relatives at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Raleigh from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com.