Jerome Leon Somerville

JEROME LEON SOMERVILLE was born on February 9, 1940, in Baltimore, MD to John and Dorothy Somerville. He was the eldest of four siblings, Darby, Pam and Kevin. As a child, Jerome was playful, adventurous and even a little mischievous. His neighbors and many of his close friends and family members referred to him as “Butch.” As a teenager, he attended the historic Dunbar High School. It was at Dunbar that he learned to play the clarinet and was introduced to classical music and literature. He could quote a plethora of lines from Shakespearean plays. His favorite quote was “To thine ownself be true.” This famous line from Julius Caesar summarizes the way in which Jerome led his life. He lived life unapologetically, vivaciously, and most importantly on his own terms. Shortly after graduating from Dunbar High School in 1958, Jerome felt a strong sense of duty and joined the United States Marine Corps. His service was marked by resilience; he survived a severe injury and underwent open-heart surgery after being declared clinically dead. He was formally recognized for his service and proud to be a Marine. Following his recovery and honorable discharge, Jerome returned to Baltimore. Initially employed by the Baltimore City Schools, he later enjoyed a successful 30-year career as an Operations Supervisor for the Department of Public Works. He was active in his community and was even recognized by Senator Elizabeth C. Gray for his work as campaign manager in 1982. Jerome pursued his passion for photography as a side business, capturing moments at parties, weddings, and other events with the latest state-of-the-art camera always at his side. Known for his vivacious personality, Jerome had a knack for making people laugh by telling boisterous stories. He was a skilled chess and spades player. He was an avid traveler who enjoyed attending live jazz shows and operas, and dining at five-star restaurants, though he also savored simpler pleasures like hot dogs and Attman’s corned beef sandwiches. Jerome also enjoyed cooking and he lovingly passed down several cherished family recipes to his children. He was actively involved in various fraternal organizations including serving as Past Grand Exalted Ruler for Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World, performing outstanding service in American Legion Northeastern Post #285, initiated as a Master Mason, participating in Dunbar Class of ‘58 Alumni Association, serving as a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, and the National Academy of Model Aeronautics. In addition to his hobbies and pastimes, Jerome was a proud father. He enjoyed spending quality time with his daughters, Teresa, Jaia, Jeri and Jaki. He had his own special relationship with each of them, providing guidance, support and bragging about them often. Teresa will remember that he always made her feel loved, special, and he taught her how to enjoy the finer things in life. Jaia will remember how he encouraged her to strive for excellence. Jeri will remember him as someone who made her feel like the best thing since sliced bread. Jaki will remember how he empowered her to be the best. In 2018, Jerome fell in love and married Ceceil. Ceceil will cherish the 6 years that they spent together and the fun that they had. Jerome lived a full life that cannot be reduced in one page. To know him was a true experience. He will be missed. He is preceded in death by his three siblings: Kevin, Pam, and Darby. Jerome leaves behind his adored wife Ceceil, daughters Teresa, Jaia, Jeri, and Jaki, as well as bonus children Wendell, Granetta, and Charoscar. His grandchildren, Kalvin, Chanel, Eddie, Summer, Jason, Derek, Malaika, and Shayla, and a host of relatives and friends also mourn his passing

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Jerome Leon Somerville

February 9, 1940 - June 15, 2024