Alderman Gerry Keating

The Jesmond Focus Team are very sorry to pass on the news that former long-serving Jesmond councillor Gerry Keating has passed away. 

Gerry is pictured above (left), alongside Philip Browne, after their joint election to serve North Jesmond in May 2023.

Gerry was first elected as a Tyne & Wear County Councillor in 1981. He went on to represent Blakelaw ward on Newcastle Council for 26 years, before becoming a councillor for North Jesmond in 2014. He stepped down from the Council in July 2024 due to ill health. Throughout that time, Gerry was a hard-working and much-admired local representative who built strong relationships with many local residents and groups.

Many also knew Gerry as a teacher of Politics and Latin at the Royal Grammar School for 33 years. Always a keen sportsman, during his time there he also coached some outstanding athletes and cross-country runners.

Our condolences go to his wife Lucy, also a former Jesmond councillor, and his wider family.