Brass-car collector Jeremiah Foley III: 1930-2022

[West Peterson]

Some of you may remember Jerry Foley of Jacksonville, Florida. He died on December 25 at age 92. He had some pretty extraordinary cars and was a long time member of AACA. His memory began to fail over the past year or two, but he could still name every car he ever owned and how much he paid for them. When he died his collection included a 1913 Lozier Runabout, 1914 Mercer J-35 and a 1922 Mercer Series 5 Raceabout.

 

Jeremiah S. Foley III, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, most of it in Avondale, died on Christmas morning at St. Vincents Hospital Riverside. Born on May 16, 1930, Jerry lived a rich life filled with family and a love for vintage automobiles. His extraordinary collection of cars over the years have won countless trophies all over the nation. He and his late wife Carolyn traveled the country on many vintage car tours. His remaining historic cars are quite remarkable. In 1957 he became the Director of the Florida Region Antique Automobile Club of America and belonged to many other vintage car clubs over the years. When he was only 27, he and his father lobbied the legislature successfully for the creation of the Florida Horseless Carriage License Plate. In is early years he served in the National Guard and worked for his father at the Foley Lumber Company in Foley Florida. After several other jobs he went with his heart and bought an automotive salvage yard. He was also an avid license plate collector and was active in the hobby.

 

Jerry was predeceased by his wife of 69 years Carolyn Fant Foley and his son Jeremiah S. Foley, IV. He is survived by his daughter Michele and husband Paul Parsells of Camp Hill, Pa, granddaughter Rachel Travers, her husband Rob and their son Rhys of Mount Wolf, Pa., and granddaughter Ashley Parsells of Lemoyne, Pa.

 

There will be a graveside service on Friday December 30 at 11:00 am at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel & Cemetery 4801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville.

 

[edinmass]

Never knew him, but was aware of his cars and his history. He owned some great stuff. 

[1937hd45]

Thoughts & prayers going out to his family and friends. I remember seeing photos of his T Head MERCER, I think he was the caretaker of that car for a very long time. 

Bob 

[Lozierman]

My wife and I visited with Jerry at his house several years ago.  We had corresponded for more than 30 years regarding Lozier automobiles.  He had an extra engine and rebuilt transmission and some other various parts that I wanted to buy, but we never could agree to a price.  He was a very nice guy and was proud of his cars.  He was a gracious host and enjoyed showing us his cars.  He has owned them for years.