Gerald Ellis Carrigan, Jr.

Gerald Ellis Carrigan, Jr. of Gastonia, NC, passed away on September 26, 2026, in a local hospital, he was 56 years old. Gerald was born on March 16, 1970, in Kings Mountain, NC, he was the son to the late, Gerald Ellis Carrigan and Brenda Kay Humphries Carrigan.

Gerald is survived by his partner of 17 years, Nichole Leatherdale; his children, Kristie Leigh Carrigan (Carroll Dunlap), Brian Scott Carrigan (Emily), Trevor Wayne Carrigan, Julian James Wrona (Alyssa Phifer), Hailey Nichole Bashaw, and Lilah Grace Bashaw; five grandchildren, Seven Dunlap, Keeley Carrigan, Cali Dunlap, Lauren Carrigan, and Vivian Nichole Wrona; his brother, Chris Carrigan (Kim); and his lifelong best friends, Jerry Williams and Jeff Humphries. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Baby Renee Carrigan.

Gerald was a man who could fix just about anything, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He wore many hats, both literally and figuratively, and lived life on his own terms while always remaining a selfless man who cared deeply for others. He was an amazing father and grandfather who treasured time spent with his family.

Gerald had a passion for cooking, especially when preparing meals for family barbecue get-togethers. When the original Hillbilly’s restaurant first opened, he served as the Pit Master, a role that allowed him to share his love of cooking with others. He also loved fishing, creating special memories with his family at Midway Lake in Kings Mountain.

In his younger years, Gerald enjoyed playing softball in the local men’s league and later gave back to his community by coaching T-Ball for New Hope Baptist Church. Whether he was fixing something, cooking for those he loved, fishing with family, or helping someone in need, Gerald’s generous spirit and willingness to give of himself touched many lives. He will be remembered as a devoted father, loving grandfather, and truly selfless man who lived life his own way.