Gerald Richard Paladino

Surrounded by the love of his devoted family, Gerald Richard Paladino of Morrilton, Arkansas, entered into the presence of our Lord and Savior on June 13, 2026. Gerald was born on May 10, 1950, to Alexander (“Ike”) and Julia Paladino of Catholic Point in Center Ridge, Arkansas. One of seven children, Gerald treasured his parents and siblings, who were the foundation of his life -- a life which was characterized by enduring faith and steadfast love. Gerald was raised on his family’s farm and attended his church’s school at St. Joseph’s in Catholic Point. He then followed his siblings’ footsteps, graduating from Sacred Heart Catholic School. He would go on to ensure his own children received a Catholic education, furthering his family’s legacy. He also became a lifelong, faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Baseball was more than just a passion for Gerald; it was a way of life. He started officially playing in 1960 and didn’t hang up his cleats until 1985. From his earliest days on the diamond with his brothers to competing across the state through American Legion, on several Conway County teams, and his 15 years on the adult softball/baseball circuit, the game brought him immeasurable joy. It was there that he forged lifelong friendships and made memories he cherished always. Gerald dedicated over 40 years to Allison Ford/Magie Ford in Morrilton. Even in retirement, he continued to stay involved in the business and contracted with Jay Hodge Ford to shuttle vehicles near and far. In 1991, Gerald married the love of his life, Sharon Beck Paladino. Together, they shared 35 wonderful years of marriage and built a family that became the center of his world. Though he loved the Los Angeles Dodgers, a day on the golf course, and any chance to enjoy horse racing at Oaklawn, his favorite place in the world was in the stands and on the sidelines, proudly cheering on his grandchildren. Creating treasured memories with the family he loved so deeply was what he valued the most. A natural jokester and gifted storyteller, Gerald filled every room he entered with laughter. Quick-witted, curious, personable, and generous, he never met a stranger and possessed the rare gift of making everyone he encountered feel genuinely important. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Julia DeSalvo Paladino and Alexander (Ike) Paladino; brothers Rapheal Angelo Paladino and Herbert Joseph Paladino; sister Sharon Paladino Rodgers; in-laws Bruce Stobaugh, Bucky Jones, and Marinelle Paladino. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Beck Paladino; his son Greg (Michelle) Paladino and daughter Brittany (Landon) Jones; beloved grandchildren Juliana and Rhett Paladino, Sadie and Jett Jones. He also leaves behind his siblings Annette (Robert) May, Sonny Paladino, Paulette Paladino Stobaugh-Jones, sister-in-laws Charlsie Paladino and Karen Paladino, and brother-in-law Dee Rodgers. Gerald was deeply cherished by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all of whom were impacted by his trademark humor, humble spirit, and unwavering love. A rosary will be held at the Harris Chapel on Tuesday, June 16, at 6:00 p.m. A visitation will follow from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of Gerald’s life will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 17, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morrilton, celebrated by Father Jack Harris and Father Kiran. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Pallbearers will be Rhett Paladino, Jett Jones, Terry May, Greg May, Damien Paladino, Justin Paladino, Bart Stobaugh, Kyle Stobaugh, and Cole Rodgers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be sent to Sacred Heart School Endowment Fund.

Gerald Richard Paladino

May 10, 1950 - June 13, 2026