Gerald Louis Curd Sr., affectionately known as Mike, made his grand entrance into the world on January 10, 1954, born to John and Violet Curd in Youngstown, Ohio. He transitioned from this life on April 21, 2025. Mike grew up on Cabot Street on the west side of Youngstown, Ohio and graduated from Chaney High School in 1972.

From an early age, Mike’s vibrant personality and natural talents were impossible to miss. As a young paperboy on the west side of Youngstown, he made lasting connections with everyone he met, delivering more than just the daily news — he delivered a smile and a good story along the way.

Mike accepted Christ and was baptized on September 17, 1961. He was a proud member of Gethsemane Baptist Church, where he shared his musical gifts, playing both the piano and organ with passion and skill. Following in the footsteps of his father, John H. Curd Jr., Mike played the organ while his father played the piano at Gethsemane Baptist Church. Mike’s music uplifted his church community and left a lasting impression on every service.

In addition to his service at Gethsemane, Mike played piano and organ for several churches in the Cleveland, Ohio area. He also played piano for the young people’s choir and young adult choir at Mt. Zion Church of Oakwood Village, in Oakwood Village, Ohio. Mike’s musical talents extended beyond the church as well — he performed in a soul and R&B band called “Last Child” from 1976 to 1977, playing at various venues around Youngstown. His bandmates affectionately nicknamed him “Hollywood Hogs.”

Mike married Alice Dukes on June 26, 1976. Their marriage was blessed with two sons, Dr. Gerald and Robert. In a later chapter of his life, he formed a meaningful relationship with Sheila Anderson, and they were blessed with a daughter, Jessica.

His gift for music blessed everyone around him — and it wasn’t the only gift he had. Mike could talk to anyone, anywhere, about anything — a true “gift of gab” that served him well in his lifelong adventures in sales. From selling portraits across America and Canada to charming just about everyone he met; Mike never met a stranger.

Mike’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly throughout his life. In the early 1980s, he founded GLC Installations, a successful cable installation business that quickly became a leader in the Ohio market and across the United States. Later, he took his talents on the road as a top sales representative for Portraits International, consistently proving that charm, grit, and a good story could win over any crowd.

In 1990, Mike also built an Amway network marketing business, where he found great success selling MCI long-distance service. He was recognized as one of the top sales representatives for MCI, and his achievements were highlighted in a promotional Amway video titled “Money in Motion,” where Mike shared his story. His natural ability to connect with people and his adventurous spirit led him across the country, engaging with everyone he met. For Mike, life was truly an adventure to chase after.

Mike is survived by his children, Dr. Gerald (Megan) Curd II, Robert (Sandy) Curd, and Jessica (Brandon) Means, along with fourteen adored grandchildren: Emma, Oliver, Tripp, Tate, Jeremy (Miranda), Devin, Peyton, Chloe, Josh, Cornell, Ja’Nyah, Brandon Jr., Maverick, and Cameron.

Mike is also lovingly remembered by Alice Curd, his former wife, who remained a devoted friend and unwavering support throughout his life. Mike is further survived by his siblings, Roberta Bellard, Robert (Frances) Curd, John H. Curd III, Dr. Francis M. (Pam) Curd, Sharon (Otha) Curd-Watson, and his uncle, Phillip Johnson. Mike was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

As we remember our beloved Mike, we also honor those who have gone before him: his parents, John Jr. and Violet Curd; his grandparents, John and Edna Curd and Samuel and Celeste Johnson; and his aunts and uncles — Edna Greenwood, Lily Wagner, Russell Johnson, Samuel Johnson, James Johnson, Paul Johnson, Herman Johnson, and Rev. Theodore Johnson.

Mike’s life was a rich tapestry of music, family, adventure, and perseverance. He embraced each day with laughter, determination, and heart. As we gather to honor Gerald, let us remember him for the laughter, the love, and the light he brought into our lives. May his soul dance forever in the joy he spread, and may we carry his legacy with us—always.

The Curd Family extends an invitation to all who knew Gerald to come and reflect on the life he lived, the love he shared, and the indelible mark he left upon our hearts. A time to gather in remembrance, to celebrate the life of this remarkable man, will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in the chapel of the J. E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave, in Youngstown. Friends are welcome to share in the public viewing, set for 11:00 AM, with a Celebration of Life service following at 12:00 PM with Rev. Lewis Macklin officiating.

After the committal ceremony, Gerald will be interred at Belmont Park Cemetery, where he will rest among the ancestors. In Gerald’s own words, “It’s been a nice ride.” His journey was indeed a remarkable one — filled with adventure, connection, and love — and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the joy of knowing him.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Gerald “Mike” Louis Curd Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.